Weight loss and heartburn are telltale symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) reports that nearly 40 percent of Americans have heartburn at least once a month and about half of all pregnant women will have heartburn by the end of their pregnancy. If your heartburn is not relieved with over-the-counter medications and you continue to lose weight, you should talk to your doctor.
Acid Reflux
The ACG explains that heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus. Some people complain of having a bitter or sour taste in the back of their throat. GERD symptoms can occur twice a week or more and last for several hours. People with GERD tend to eat less to avoid and minimize symptoms, resulting in weight loss.
Considerations
It's possible that heartburn and weight loss are separate symptoms or just coincidental. As the ACG reports, almost everyone will have heartburn from time to time. Weight loss can also be caused by aging, loss of water weight after menstruation, dieting or persistent allergy problems.
Managing Symptoms
To manage your symptoms, according to Medline Plus, a health website published by the National Institutes of Health, try giving up your smoking habit. Refrain from drinking or eating foods that have triggered your heartburn in the past. Lose excess weight. Try eating smaller meals several times a day rather than three larger meals. Avoid wearing tight clothing. Lie down for about three hours after eating. Sleep with your mattress on a slight incline, so that your head is about 6 to 8 inches above your legs.
Treatment
Over-the-counter medication you can try taking to manage your symptoms include antacids, which reduces the effect of acids in your stomach. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that antacids provide quick, short-term relief. H2 blockers like Zantac or Pepcid reduce stomach acids. Proton pump inhibitors, including Prilosec, will reduce your body's production of stomach acid.
Once your heartburn symptoms are treated, you will be able to eat more comfortably.
Warnings
Heartburn, according to the ACG, can sometimes be a warning sign, especially when other symptoms, including weight loss and food sticking, are present. Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a common disorder that is a less serious form of GERD. It occurs when the entrance to the esophagus from the stomach opens spontaneously for differing periods of time, or does not close correctly, allowing the stomach's contents to splash up into the esophagus.
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