When to Go to Er for Heartburn
When to Go to ER for Heartburn? A symptom we have likely all experienced to varying degrees. Heartburn is a burning feeling in the lower chest or upper abdomen, with a sour bitter taste in the mouth and throat. This usually occurs shortly after eating a large meal or lying down.
What Causes Heartburn?
Each bite of food is passed from the mouth down a tube called the esophagus. The food must pass through a door called the lower esophageal sphincter to enter the stomach. Usually this door or sphincter closes as soon as the food passes through. However, if it does not fully close, acid produced in the stomach can get through the opening and into the esophagus. This process is called reflux. This acid can be very irritating to the esophagus.
What Factors Add to Heartburn?
Overeating
Bending over
Lying down
Pregnancy
Stress
Certain foods
What Can Trigger Heartburn?
Cigarette smoking
Coffee (regular and decaffeinated) and other drinks that contain caffeine
Alcohol
Soft drinks
Citrus fruits
Tomato products
Chocolate, mints, or peppermints
Fatty or spicy foods (such as pizza, chili, and curry)
Onions
Lying down too soon after eating
Being overweight or obese
Aspirin or ibuprofen (one brand name: Motrin)
Certain medicines (such as sedatives and some medicines for high blood pressure)

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