Heartburn symptoms include burning in the throat and chest that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube-like structure connecting the stomach to the throat.
The acid irritates the esophageal lining, leading to a burning sensation. Heartburn results from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can also occur due to certain foods, medications, and lifestyle factors.
Heartburn symptoms can often be relieved with over-the-counter medications or treatments but sometimes require medical care and prescription medications.
How To Get Rid Of Heartburn
- Heartburn can be relieved in several ways:
- Take an antacid or glass of milk to neutralize stomach acid.
- Avoid triggering foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overstuffing your stomach.
- Do not lie down for at least two hours after eating.
- Raise the head of your bed to prevent acid from flowing back into your esophagus.
- Avoid tight clothing since it can place pressure on your stomach.
- Quit smoking, as nicotine can increase stomach acid production.
- Use relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga to reduce stress.
- Try CBD, apple cider vinegar, or ginger: all discussed below.
Causes of Heartburn
Heartburn is caused when stomach acid moves into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a ring of muscle-type tissue at the end of the esophagus that prevents acidic stomach contents from returning to the esophagus. However, when the LES weakens or relaxes abnormally, stomach acid returns to the esophagus, leading to heartburn. In Image #1, the LES is labeled “sphincter.”
Certain foods and beverages can trigger heartburn: spicy and fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods like citrus fruits. In addition, lifestyle factors can contribute to heartburn, such as smoking, being overweight, pregnancy, and lying down or bending right after eating.
Some medical conditions can also cause or contribute to heartburn and GERD, such as hiatal hernia, in which there is a protrusion into the chest wall cavity from the upper part of the stomach. In addition, medications can cause or worsen heartburn, including aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood pressure medications like calcium channel blockers and beta blockers.
Symptoms of Heartburn
The primary symptom of heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth. This discomfort can range from mild to severe, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Other heartburn symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, coughing, wheezing, and hoarseness. In some cases, heartburn can also cause nausea or vomiting.
How To Get Rid Of Heartburn Using CBD, Apple Cider Vinegar, or Ginger
Try Ginger
Patients have reported ginger reduces the symptoms of GERD, including heartburn, but there are no scientific studies to verify these claims.
If you’d like to know how to take ginger and its other health benefits, have a look at our article on 6 Health Benefits Of Ginger 2023? Nutrition Facts & How To Uses.
CBD to Treat Heartburn
CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound found in the cannabis plant that does not cause the psychoactive “high.”
Researchers have found receptors in the esophagus for CBD, which are believed to affect inflammation, motility (movement), and gastric acid production; however, more studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of CBD for heartburn and GERD.
People have stated there is much symptom relief from CBD. So, if you’re wondering which kind to choose, we’ve got you covered with our article on Best CBD For GERD 2023: Does It Work For GERD & Acid Reflux?
Sip Apple Cider Vinegar
One study found that apple cider vinegar (ACV) decreased insulin and glucose responses, lowering the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. By slowing down this process, we reach satiety (fullness) sooner and eat less, lowering the chance of reflux and heartburn.
In addition, apple cider vinegar has other benefits, so check out our article on 7 Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar & Honey 2023.
When To Seek Medical Care if Having Heartburn
While occasional heartburn is common and typically not a cause for concern, there are times when you should seek medical care for your heartburn symptoms. Here are some instances where it’s best to consult with a doctor:
- Frequent heartburn: If you experience heartburn more than twice a week, it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition that requires medical attention.
- Severe heartburn: If your heartburn is severe and lasts more than a few hours, it may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a heart attack.
- Difficulty swallowing: If you have difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or choking sensations, seek immediate medical attention, as it may be a sign of a blockage in your esophagus.
- Chronic cough: A chronic cough lasting more than a few weeks may be a sign of acid reflux or GERD.
- Unintended weight loss: If you are experiencing unintended weight loss along with your heartburn symptoms, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
If you’re unsure whether your heartburn symptoms warrant medical attention, it’s always best to use caution and consult with a doctor or healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, heartburn is a common symptom experienced by many individuals, caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. While occasional heartburn is usually not a cause for concern, frequent or severe symptoms can indicate underlying medical conditions that require treatment.
Sometimes, lifestyle changes can relieve the symptoms, but in other cases, medications are needed for relief, including antacids, or proton pump inhibitors, by prescription and over-the-counter. We recommend CBD, apple cider vinegar, or ginger for those who want to try a more natural approach.
However, if heartburn symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment is essential. With proper management, individuals can reduce the impact of heartburn on their quality of life and overall health.