When to Go to Er for Heartburn

 When to Go to ER for HeartburnA 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.

When to Go to Er for Heartburn

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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