A common idea is that heartburn is often caused by certain foods, and while this is true in some cases, consistent, painful heartburn as a daily occurrence could be indicative of a more serious issue. Gastroesophogeal reflux disease is a fairly common condition, with 10 to 20 percent of the population potentially affected by it. In most cases, heartburn can be relieved through diet and lifestyle changes, but some may require medication or surgery.
In some cases, GERD can cause severe pain for as long as two hours, and is often worse after eating. Treatment usually consists of removal of foods, beverages, and smoking from the life of the affected individual. Certain foods, drinks, and habits can irritate or damage esophageal lining, such as:
- Citrus fruits and juices
- Tomato-based sauces and drinks
- Spicy foods and pepers
- Chocolates and other fatty foods
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Smoking
Antacids are also useful in neutralizing acid in the esophagus and stomach, but treatment of this condition should be unique to you as an individual. If you’re concerned about how painful or reoccurring your heartburn is, and you’ve tried cutting out consumption of products that might cause heartburn, consider calling us to make an appointment—we’ll do our best to care for your specific condition and find a solution to your ailment.