Heartburn – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Heartburn – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment in Emirates Hospitals Group

Overview

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus. It is often triggered by certain foods, stress, or lying down after eating.

Causes:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Chronic acid reflux.
• Trigger Foods – Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol.
• Obesity & Pregnancy – Increased abdominal pressure weakens the lower esophageal sphincter.

Diagnosis:

• Symptom Evaluation – Based on frequency and triggers.
• Endoscopy – Examines esophageal lining for damage.
• pH Monitoring – Measures acid levels in the esophagus.

Treatment Options:

• Lifestyle Changes – Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating.
• Medications – Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
• Surgery – Fundoplication for severe GERD cases.

Related Treatments

• Stomach/Gastric Cancer
• Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia)