Heartburn is a common condition that many people experience occasionally, often after eating spicy or acidic foods. While occasional heartburn is usually harmless and can be managed with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications, persistent or severe heartburn could indicate a more serious underlying health issue. Your gastroenterologists at Akron Digestive Health in Akron, OH, can explain when heartburn might point to more serious issues that you could be dealing with.
Knowing When Heartburn is a Serious Issue
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle that normally prevents acid from escaping the stomach, becomes weak or relaxed. Common triggers for heartburn include:
- Eating large meals
- Lying down after eating
- Consuming spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
- Drinking coffee or alcohol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications
While heartburn is often a minor issue, it could be a sign of something more serious affecting you. It’s important to talk to your gastroenterologists in Akron, OH, about heartburn to know when it needs additional care. Chronic heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may indicate GERD, a condition where stomach acid frequently irritates the esophagus. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications like esophageal ulcers, strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest, leading to acid reflux and persistent heartburn. This condition may require medical treatment if symptoms become severe. Ulcers in the stomach or upper intestine can also cause burning pain that may be mistaken for heartburn. These ulcers can result from bacterial infections or long-term use of NSAIDs.
Contact Our Gastroenterologists Today
Find out when heartburn could be a sign of a more serious complication. Contact your gastroenterologists at Akron Digestive Health in Akron, OH, to learn more about heartburn and when to seek help. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment at (330) 869-0124.
