Many people experience heartburn at times, often after eating, bending over or lying down. Heartburn produces a burning sensation in the upper chest or throat that occurs when an esophageal valve does not close properly to prevent stomach acid from rising back up into the esophagus. Some people, however, have persistent heartburn that can be reduced or avoided by identifying the causes.
Diet
Eating large meals and certain foods can trigger heartburn, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Eating shortly before bedtime can increase the risk of stomach acid flowing back up because the food has not had time to digest. Exercising shortly after eating may lead to heartburn. Foods that may cause heartburn include high-fat or spicy foods, tomato-based products, citrus fruits, onions, garlic, chocolate and peppermint. Alcohol, caffeinated beverages and carbonated drinks may result in heartburn. Some people have particular foods that lead to their heartburn and may have to limit them or eliminate them from their diet.
Lifestyle
Being overweight increases heartburn symptoms because of pressure on the abdomen that contributes to pushing stomach acid up into the esophagus. Some people can see heartburn symptoms disappear completely after losing 10 to 15 pounds, MedlinePlus notes. Wearing tight-fitting clothes also increases heartburn episodes by squeezing the stomach. Smoking relaxes the esophageal valve to cause more heartburn. Stress can cause or worsen heartburn. For people who find they can’t avoid stress, stress management programs or relaxation techniques can reduce stress and eventually frequent heartburn.
Medical Reasons
Hiatal hernia increases the frequency of heartburn because the condition pushes the top part of the stomach upward into the chest, according to MedlinePlus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, causes chronic heartburn. People with GERD have heartburn symptoms more than twice a week because the valve in the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, is permanently weakened. Acid- blocking medication, often through prescription, helps relieve symptoms for GERD. Persistent heartburn may also be the result of gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, or peptic ulcer.
Medicine
People taking certain medications may experience frequent episodes of heartburn. Certain medication for high blood pressure, such as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers, may trigger heartburn, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Aspirin and ibuprofen may also cause increased heartburn. Sedatives for insomnia and anxiety or tricyclic antidepressants may cause heartburn, Medline Plus says. Other medications may also cause heartburn. People who suspect symptoms may be from medication should check with a doctor who may prescribe another medication.
