Chest pain after a meal can put a damper on anyone's favorite spicy meatball dish. More importantly, it can be a warning signal to a more serious problem. Heartburn is a backward reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus causing pain. It is one of the most common complaints among Americans. The Gastroententerology journal reports more than 40 percent of the U.S. population suffer from symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as heartburn. However, heartburn symptoms, along with long-term risks, can be considerably decreased.
Step 1
See a physician. While a doctor's visit may seem like going overboard for such a common complaint, it is an important first step toward relief from chronic heartburn. Heartburn can mimic the symptoms of other diseases, as well as have severe consequences with longstanding untreated symptoms. A proper assessment by your physician is warranted to rule out other serious conditions including life-threatening heart disease. A family physician will perform the appropriate general physical exam and rule out any concerning possibilities. She may even start a medication regimen.
Step 2
Stop smoking. Nicotine relaxes the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach, allowing the acid to flow backward.
Step 3
Avoid lying down directly after a meal. Give your food time to digest. The recommended time for going to bed after a meal is at least two to three hours.
Step 4
Rest at a 45-degree angle. Lying flat on your back causes the contents of your stomach to move backwards toward your esophagus. Try using a 4 x 4 under the head of your bed or increasing your number of pillows.
Step 5
Wear loose fitted clothing and/or lose weight. Snug fitted clothing and extra pounds increase the pressure in your stomach, further causing the likelihood of its contents to reflux.
Step 6
Avoid foods and beverages that exacerbate the symptoms of chronic heartburn. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House recommends avoidance of the following common foods that worsen reflux: citrus fruits; chocolate; drinks with caffeine or alcohol; fatty and fried foods; garlic and onions; mint flavorings; spicy foods; and tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili and pizza.
Step 7
Add foods that relieve. There are a few foods known to help alkalize acid and reduce symptoms after meals. A few to try include milk, almonds, apples, papaya, honey and apple cider vinegar.
Step 8
Don't overeat. Overeating can increase the size of the stomach. Enjoying smaller meals will help to reduce the contents in your stomach and the amount of acid produced.
Step 9
Follow recommended treatment. Medications that relieve acid reflux symptoms include antacids, proton pump inhibitors, histamine blockers, antibiotics and prokinetics. Many of these can be found over the counter. Your doctor will be able to recommend the regimen that is right for you. If your doctor doesn't offer, ask your doctor to review your medication list. Some medications may cause GERD symptoms.
