Are you one of the millions of people who suffer from frequent heartburn? Do you not know why this is happening to you? If so, read on to learn some potential causes of severe heartburn and what you can do about it.
1. Eating Certain Foods
Certain foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and other spicy foods can trigger heartburn. Greasy or fried foods and caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea can also cause a flare-up. Eat small meals throughout the day rather than large portions only a few times a day to help prevent indigestion symptoms.
2. Stress
Stress is a common cause of heartburn because it makes the stomach produce extra acid, which leads to burning sensations in the esophagus. Try stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation or deep breathing exercises to help reduce your stress levels.
3. Smoking
Smoking decreases saliva production in the mouth by two-thirds, making it difficult for acidic substances to go back down the throat after regurgitating due to increased stomach acid production and weakening lower esophageal sphincter muscles (LES). Quitting smoking may be necessary if frequent episodes of heartburn are experienced.
4. Obesity
Obesity increases internal pressure in the abdomen which will push up on the LES causing them to open more often, leading to more reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus – leading to frequent heartburn episodes. Maintaining an optimal body weight through healthy eating habits and regular exercise should reduce episodes of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
5. Consuming Too Much Alcohol
Regular consumption of alcohol triggers acid reflux by relaxing the LES which promotes stomach juices flowing up through the esophagus causing burning pain in the upper chest area near the sternum. Even an occasional glass of wine or beer may worsen GERD symptoms so reducing intake is always recommended for those suffering from excessive episodes of reflux chest discomfort or outright acid reflux symptoms like indigestion or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
You must consider all these factors if experiencing frequent heartburn episodes on a regular basis as they may signal an underlying health issue that needs further investigation by your physician. In addition, adopting certain lifestyle changes such as avoiding certain trigger foods, reducing stress levels, quitting smoking, managing obesity through diet and exercise, and limiting drinking may alleviate symptoms significantly over time allowing patients to restore quality digestive health without the need for aggressive medications anymore!
