Disorders We Treat

Heartburn

Heartburn may be caused by a number of factors:

• Diet, especially eating spicy, greasy, or fried foods
• Excess weight
• Exercising too soon after meals
• Smoking
• Drinking alcoholic, carbonated, or caffeinated drinks
• Excessive pressure on the stomach caused by frequent bending, tight clothes or pregnancy
• Certain medications – (Never discontinue any medication without first consulting your physician.)
• Hiatal Hernia
• Stress

If your heartburn is chronic and severe, you may have a more serious condition known as GERD. If you suspect that you have GERD, consult your doctor right away.

The following changes may alleviate most mild heartburn symptoms:

• Avoid citrus fruits (e.g., orange juice), coffee, carbonated sodas, alcohol, spicy foods, large meals, tomato products, and chocolate.
• If you smoke, enroll in a smoking cessation class, or consult your doctor about ways to kick the habit.
• Avoid lying down after meals for at least two hours.
• Do not eat or drink two to three hours before bedtime.

When life style changes and medication are not enough, surgical intervention may be necessary.