A burning sensation in the chest, also known as heartburn, can be discomforting. Often accompanied by bloating and belching, these symptoms indicate digestive problems that usually resolve on their own without any medical assistance and with some changes in dietary habits. However, if it is persistent, it is best to consult a doctor who may be able to tell what the underlying cause is.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Mukesh Mehra, Director - Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, sheds light on the common causes of heartburn, starting with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), followed by other possible causes.
Also Read: GERD: Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux and Heartburn
GERD And Heartburn
GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus and irritates the lining of the tube. Many factors can lead to the condition, ranging from unhealthy dietary habits to consuming foods that are highly acidic in nature.
Over the years, the prevalence of GERD has increased drastically, from 441.6 million to 783.9 million in 1990 to 2019, respectively, according to a study published in the BMC Public Health.
While occasional acid reflux is normal, GERD occurs when acid reflux becomes more frequent. This can cause heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and trouble swallowing.
Dr Mehra explains, “GERD causes heartburn by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. Normally, a muscle called the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) acts as a barrier, preventing this reflux. However, in GERD, the LES may weaken or relax inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to escape into the oesophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. This irritation manifests as heartburn.”
If you experience these symptoms more than twice a week, see a doctor to avoid complications from GERD.
However, it is important to note that heartburn can also be caused by other factors.
Other Possible Causes Of Heartburn
Apart from acid reflux, or GERD, there are other factors that can cause heartburn. These include:
Unhealthy dietary habits
In general, heartburn can be triggered by spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. All of these can weaken the valve separating your stomach and oesophagus, allowing acid to creep up and irritate the lining. Similarly, large meals can overwhelm your digestion and lead to reflux. Moreover, lying down immediately after eating can trigger heartburn, as the stomach acid can more easily wash back up into your oesophagus.
Obesity
According to a research article published in the journal Gastroenterology, obesity is a major risk factor for heartburn. This is because the extra weight, especially around the belly, can put pressure on the abdomen. This pressure pushes stomach contents, including acid, back up into the oesophagus, causing the burning sensation in your chest.
Smoking
Smoking is another factor that can increase the risk of heartburn. It weakens and irritates the LES, which allows stomach acid to flow back up into the oesophagus, causing a burning pain in the chest.
Also Read: What Are The Causes Of Heartburn During Pregnancy? Know How To Treat It From An Expert
Gallstones
Symptoms, such as heartburn, indigestion, belching, bloating, and abdominal discomfort, are common in people with gallstones, according to a study published in the journal Baillière's Clinical Gastroenterology. However, researchers note that these symptoms are "probably unrelated to the stones themselves and frequently persist after surgery."
How To Relieve Heartburn
Dr Mehra says, “For relieving heartburn with home remedies, patients can try consuming antacids to neutralise stomach acid, drinking water or herbal teas, chewing gum to stimulate saliva production (which can neutralise acid), consuming ginger, baking soda mixed with water, or even a teaspoon of mustard.”
However, if heartburn persists despite these measures or if it becomes severe and frequent, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional, the doctor adds.
According to him, depending on the severity and frequency of heartburn, a doctor may recommend medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid production, H2 receptor antagonists to decrease acid production, or antacids for immediate relief.
Lifestyle modifications and medications can often manage heartburn effectively, but persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation to rule out complications or underlying conditions, the doctor concludes.