I Have Heartburn Every Day: Can You Help?

The burning sensation in your chest, the discomfort, and sometimes even the bitter taste in your mouth aren’t things to joke about. Heartburn can take the joy out of having a delicious meal with your friends and family, and sometimes, it may even be a sign of an underlying condition.

If heartburn is a daily occurrence, your concern is warranted. Our experts at Carolina Digestive Health Associates often see patients suffering from heartburn and want to share with you what heartburn actually is, what causes it, and what treatment options are available.

Understanding why heartburn occurs

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, occurring when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This acid irritates the esophageal lining, causing the familiar burning sensation.

At the heart of heartburn lies a small but crucial muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This muscle acts as a valve, opening to allow food to pass into the stomach and closing to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up. When the muscle weakens or relaxes when it shouldn’t, stomach acid can escape and climb up into the esophagus. 

As the acid climbs up, it causes a burning sensation that can damage the esophagus. If it reaches the mouth, it can contribute to halitosis (bad breath) and cavities, as the acid can erode dental enamel.

Everyone can experience heartburn occasionally, but when it becomes a regular occurrence, it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterized by persistent heartburn.

Reducing heartburn triggers

Several factors can contribute to a malfunctioning LES, allowing stomach acid to flow back up. These include:

• Certain foods (spicy dishes, fatty meals, citrus fruits, and chocolate)
• Certain medications (pain relievers and blood pressure medications)
• Alcohol consumption
• Hiatal hernias and obesity

These factors impact the LES by encouraging muscle relaxation or pressing on it, as in the case of a hernia or excess weight around the waist.

Treating heartburn

Treatment may involve dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, or medications, depending on the severity and triggers. Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help reduce acid production.

Triggers can sometimes be identified by keeping a symptom diary and recording daily habits to determine which foods and drinks may contribute to the issue.

Although heartburn is generally considered uncomfortable, persistent or severe cases should be examined by a medical provider. Left untreated, constant exposure to stomach acid in the esophagus can lead to serious complications, including esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), and Barrett's esophagus (a precancerous condition).

If heartburn is causing you discomfort, many effective treatments can manage it and reduce your risk of complications. For peace of mind, schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Belmont or Charlotte, North Carolina.