Conditions and Diseases HEARTBURN Heartburn is also known as pyrosis, dyspepsia, indigestion, esophageal reflux. Heartburn is defined as an acid leaking from the stomach into the esophagus or throat, causing irritation or burning sensation of the tissue. Heartburn happens when there is an increase or decrease in acid production from the stomach, or when the stomach sphincter, which is a one-way valve to keep stomach contents in, leaks its contents into the esophagus. Chronic long-term heartburn can be signs of other digestive problems, including ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome, gallbladder, and liver disease. It is important to remember that not all heartburn is caused by over-secretion of acids. Studies show that some people do not stimulate enough acid. This is a common finding in the elderly. Physical examination and lab analysis help determine heartburn causes. Occasionally heartburn is normal. Daily heartburn is abnormal, and chronic antacid indigestion can lead to digestive problems, including constipation and/or diarrhea. Drugs Drugs for heartburn are Cimetidine or Tagamet, Ranitidine or Zantac, and Omeprazole or Prilosec. All decrease acid productions. Antacids neutralize acid. Both these functions cause the normal pH of the stomach, which is 1.5 to 2.5, to rise to 3.5 or higher. This can cause problems with protein and mineral absorption. Heartburn Self-Care Avoid eating two to three hours before bedtime. Avoid lying down after meals. If you must lay down, or if you get heartburn after lying down, lay down on the left side. If you lay down on the left side, the stomach is below the esophagus and gravity will assist the clearing mechanism. Also, raising the head of the bed six inches. This will assist the clearing mechanism so that the acid leaks down into the stomach instead of up into the esophagus. Avoid overeating or try getting three to four smaller meals per day and chew your food better. Drink more water. Avoid tomatoes, citrus foods, pepper, and some spicy foods. Alcohol, chocolate, and coffee all can cause the sphincter to relax. Avoid carbonated beverages. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen and Tylenol can cause breakdown of mucus lining. Herbs Ginger, catnip, fennel, and marshmallow root have shown to neutralize acid and promote digestion. Aloe Vera helps the digestive tract heal if the acid has irritated the throat enough to cause some inflammation. Lab Studies can be done to determine whether an increase or decreased production of acid in the stomach is happening. The test is called the Heidelberg Gastric Analysis Test. This test can measure the pH of stomach acid.

Hours of Operation: 8 am to 6 pm Monday - Friday / 9 am to 12 pm Saturday
Corner of Beecaves Rd. (2244) & Mopac. (Westlake) 2525 Wallingwood Drive, Suite 1-B Austin Texas 78746 Phone: 512 306-0212   Fax: 512 306-0209	South West Corner of 183 & Burnet Rd. 9070 Research Boulevard, Suite 105 Austin Texas 78758 Phone: 512 374-9955   Fax: 512 374-9911
Email: question@natureshealthcareinfo.com
Privacy Statement