HEARTBURN

   Millions of people who suffer from heartburn might actually have a chronic condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.  Left untreated, it can damage the esophagus and even lead to cancer.  Lifestyle changes and over the counter medication can provide relief for many people.  It is important to know that if the symptoms are serious enough for a trip to the doctor, and when to turn to important medication called proton pump inhibitors to extinguish the flames.

   About 15 million people have daily flare-ups according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney diseases.  The average person with GERD, a related ailment spends an estimated $3,355 a year on medication and other treatments to keep symptoms under control.  Obese people, smokers and pregnant women are more likely to suffer from GERD.  Swallowing food makes a trip through the esophagus into the tummy.  It is supposed to close after the food passes.  If it doesn’t close and the acid remains in the esophagus you will feel a burning sensation just below the breastbone and that can radiate into the throat and then you may sense a bitter taste in your mouth or throat.  

   Occasional heartburn is generally not worrisome or dangerous and can be relieved with diet and lifestyle changes.  If it happens twice a week or more and recurs for weeks or months or regurgitates food (with or without heart burn) consider seeing your doctor to be checked for GERD.  In contrast to occasional heartburn, GERD can be dangerous.  Over time, the refluxed acid can inflame and erode the lining of the esophagus.  Most cases of esophagitis are relatively mild but bleeding, scarring, and narrowing of the esophagus can occur that makes swallowing, painful and difficult.  Certain food and beverages such as citrus, chocolate, coffee, or other caffeinated beverages, fried food, garlic, onions and spicy or fatty food and tomato rich food such as marinara sauce, salsa and pizza.  Alcoholic beverages may also increase GERD symptoms.  They may resolve after you stop drinking.  Smoking weakens the inner esophageal sphincter muscle and increases the risk of GERD and other diseases and should be stopped.  It is no surprise that people who have heartburn sometimes fear they are having a heart attack because symptoms are similar.  Reports on Health, Volume 24.