Heartburn is one of the common digestive problems and occurs when stomach acid returns to the esophagus and causes burning and discomfort in the chest and upper abdomen. Several reasons can cause heartburn, including eating spicy, fatty and acidic foods, stress, and some bad eating habits. Fortunately, there are various methods to prevent and treat this problem, which can be reduced with simple changes in lifestyle and following some nutritional tips. In this article from Parla Gastroenterology Clinic magazine, we will examine the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of heartburn. What is the cause of heartburn? Heartburn usually occurs due to reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus or irritation of the stomach lining. This condition can be caused by factors such as **consuming fatty, spicy or acidic foods**, **overeating**, **sleeping immediately after eating** or **stress and anxiety** . Also, diseases such as **gastric reflux (GERD)**, **gastric ulcer** or **helicobacter pylori infection** can also be underlying factors. In some cases, the use of certain drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) also cause damage to the stomach lining and irritation. Diagnosing the exact cause requires examination by a doctor. What should we eat for heartburn and stomach ache? To reduce heartburn and stomach pain, it is better to eat mild, low-fat and easy-to-digest foods. Foods such as bananas, white rice, boiled potatoes, plain toast, low-fat yogurt, and light soups can soothe the stomach. Also, drinking lukewarm water and chamomile tea or ginger tea is also effective in relieving stomach inflammation. Avoid spicy, fatty, fried foods, soft drinks, coffee, and acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, as they can worsen the condition. If the heartburn repeats, it is necessary to consult a doctor. - Banana - Boiled or mashed potatoes (without butter and spices) - Plain white rice - Plain toast or dry white bread - Low-fat or probiotic yogurt - light soups (such as barley or chicken soup without fat and spices) Chamomile tea or ginger tea - Oatmeal (oatmeal) - Grated or cooked apple (without skin) - Warm water or natural coconut water In the end, paying attention to the type of nutrition plays an important role in controlling and reducing stomach irritation and pain. Choosing simple, low-acid and light foods can help calm the stomach and prevent further irritation. Along with proper nutrition, avoiding overeating, chewing food completely and eating small meals throughout the day are also very effective. If the symptoms still persist after observing these things, you must see a doctor so that the exact cause can be investigated and appropriate treatment can be prescribed. What is the symptom of heartburn? Heartburn is usually a symptom of reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, which causes a burning sensation in the chest area. This condition may occur due to problems such as a weak valve between the stomach and esophagus, overeating, or consuming irritating foods. Also, heartburn can be a sign of stomach ulcer, gastritis or other digestive problems. If this problem occurs frequently, it is recommended to see a doctor. - **Gastric ulcer**: When the inner layer of the stomach gets ulcerated, heartburn may appear as one of its symptoms. - **Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)**: inflammation of the stomach wall may cause pain and burning in the stomach, which is aggravated by eating acidic food or drink. - **Food intolerance**: Some people are allergic to certain foods such as dairy or wheat, which can lead to digestive problems and heartburn. - **Gallbladder problems**: Sometimes heartburn can be related to gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. - **Helicobacter pylori infection**: This type of bacteria can cause stomach ulcer and inflammation, which leads to stomach burning and pain. If heartburn occurs frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms such as unwanted weight loss, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing, it is best to consult a doctor so that the causes can be investigated more precisely and appropriate treatment can be initiated. What is good for heartburn? To relieve heartburn, it is very useful to consume light and mild foods such as bananas, white rice, boiled potatoes and plain toast. Drinking lukewarm water and soothing teas such as chamomile or ginger tea can also help reduce inflammation and stomach acid.** Consuming low-fat yogurt and a few raw almonds are also effective in calming the stomach. Also, it is better not to lie down after eating, and when sleeping, put a pillow under your head to prevent acid from returning to the esophagus. If the symptoms persist, it is necessary to see a doctor. What pill should we take for heartburn? Medicines that reduce or neutralize stomach acid are usually used to treat heartburn. Medicines such as omeprazole, famotidine and pantoprazole are among the most widely used options and are usually prescribed to treat gastric reflux or gastrointestinal inflammations. Also, in mild or temporary cases, simple antacids such as aluminum-magnesium syrup or chewable tablets such as Gaviscon can be used. However, continuous or arbitrary use of these drugs is not recommended, and in case of repeated symptoms, a doctor should be consulted. We will review the common medicines for heartburn below: - Ranitidine - **famotidine** - Omeprazole - Pantoprazole - **Someprazole** - **Lansoprazole** - **Antacids** - **Aluminum-magnesium syrup** (antacid syrup) **antacid chewable tablet** If heartburn is mild and occasional, short-term use of antacids is sufficient. But in case of recurrence or severity of symptoms, acid-blocking drugs such as omeprazole should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. Root treatment requires investigation of the main cause of heartburn and modification of lifestyle. Quick treatment for heartburn at home To quickly treat heartburn at home, you can use simple and natural methods that reduce symptoms quickly in most cases. Drinking a glass of lukewarm water can dilute the excess stomach acid and reduce the burning sensation. Eating a ripe banana or a few raw almonds also helps to soothe the stomach due to its alkaline properties. Teas such as chamomile or ginger tea, with their soothing effect, reduce inflammation and irritation of the stomach. If heartburn occurs after eating, it is better not to lie down immediately and stay sitting or standing for at least half an hour. Also, raising the head while sleeping using a pillow can prevent acid from returning to the esophagus. In necessary cases, a dilute solution of baking soda in water can be used as a temporary treatment, but it should not be used continuously. If heartburn is frequent or severe, a doctor must be consulted. Drinking lukewarm water Eating ripe bananas Eating raw almonds Drinking chamomile tea Drinking ginger tea Sitting or standing after eating Raising the head while sleeping Home remedies can temporarily relieve heartburn, but if symptoms are frequent or severe, you should see a doctor. It is better to avoid triggers such as overeating, fatty foods, and sleeping after eating to prevent symptoms from returning. The best fruit for heartburn Fruits can help reduce heartburn due to their nutrients, fiber, and alkaline properties. Some fruits, such as bananas, sweet apples, and watermelons, relieve acid reflux symptoms by reducing stomach acid and balancing the digestive environment. These fruits also contain fiber that improves digestion and prevents stomach irritation. Consuming low-acid and alkaline fruits helps maintain the health of the digestive system and prevents the exacerbation of heartburn. - Banana - Baked apple - Grated apple - A ripe pear - Melon - 🔸 papaya - Watermelon - Cantaloupe In choosing fruit for sensitive stomachs, the most important principle is to avoid acidic and irritating fruits. Fruits such as bananas and baked apples with mild and alkaline properties are safe options to relieve heartburn. Conversely, sour and acidic fruits such as citrus and kiwi tend to aggravate symptoms. Therefore, choosing fruit wisely can play an effective role in calming the stomach. Treatment of heartburn Heartburn or acid reflux is one of the common digestive problems that many people experience during their lifetime. This condition occurs due to the return of stomach acid to the esophagus, which can lead to a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Although this problem may be mild in many cases, in some cases it can lead to more serious complications such as stomach or esophageal ulcers. Fortunately, there are several solutions to treat heartburn that can help reduce symptoms and prevent its aggravation. ### Changes in lifestyle and diet One of the first and most effective methods of treating heartburn is a change in lifestyle and diet. Eating healthy and balanced foods can help reduce stomach acid. Certain foods such as fatty, spicy, acidic foods, and caffeinated or alcoholic beverages can aggravate heartburn. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid these foods and replace them with healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits (except citrus fruits) and low-fat proteins. Also, eating small and frequent meals instead of large and heavy meals can reduce the pressure on the stomach and prevent acid from returning to the esophagus. It is also important to avoid sleeping right after a meal, as sleeping can aggravate acid reflux. It is better to sleep at least two to three hours after eating, and if you need to sleep, put your head above the body level to prevent acid from returning to the esophagus. ### Reducing stress and managing psychological factors Stress and mental pressure can play a significant role in aggravating heartburn. When the body is under stress, the production of stomach acid may increase, leading to heartburn. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and even daily walks can help reduce these stresses and improve digestive health. Also, creating a balance between work and life and having time for rest and recreation is very important. ### Quit bad habits Some bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol can help aggravate heartburn. Nicotine in cigarettes can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle and cause acid to return to the esophagus. Also, alcohol increases the production of stomach acid and aggravates the symptoms of heartburn. Therefore, quitting smoking and reducing or stopping alcohol consumption can significantly improve the symptoms of this disease. ### Use of antacid drugs In some cases, lifestyle and diet changes alone may not be enough to treat heartburn. In these cases, the doctor may recommend the use of antacids. These medications help reduce the production of stomach acid or neutralize the acid and can relieve the symptoms of heartburn. Antacids are usually taken orally and may be used temporarily or long-term. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs such as omeprazole and lansoprazole are one of the most commonly used drugs to treat heartburn. These drugs significantly reduce the production of stomach acid and give the esophagus a chance to heal. All the medicines you take must be prescribed by a doctor. ### Home remedies In addition to chemical medications, some home remedies can also help reduce heartburn. Drinking natural beverages such as ginger tea, chamomile tea, and coconut water may help relieve acid reflux symptoms. Also, consuming apple cider vinegar with water or eating a small amount of honey can help moderate stomach acid levels. But it should be noted that these treatments are not effective for all people and it is better to consult a doctor before using them. ### See a doctor If heartburn is persistent and severe, it is important to see a doctor. Chronic heartburn may be a sign of more serious problems, such as peptic ulcers, esophagitis, or even esophageal cancer. The doctor can diagnose the exact cause of this problem by performing the necessary tests and investigations and provide the appropriate treatment. Finally, heartburn is a common problem, but with appropriate changes in lifestyle, diet, and if needed, the use of medication, it can be well controlled and prevent serious complications. It is important to pay attention to your symptoms and see a doctor if they worsen or persist. Heartburn in pregnancy Heartburn during pregnancy is a common problem that many pregnant women face, especially in the second and third trimesters. This problem is caused by the hormonal and physical changes that occur in the body during pregnancy. In the following, we will explain the causes, symptoms and methods of treatment and prevention of heartburn during pregnancy: ### Causes of heartburn in pregnancy 1. **Hormonal changes**: During pregnancy, the level of progesterone hormone increases. This hormone relaxes various muscles in the body, including the muscles of the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. As a result, this valve does not close properly and stomach acid easily backs up into the esophagus, causing irritation. 2. Pressure caused by fetal growth: As the fetus grows in the womb, the space in the stomach decreases and the pressure on the stomach increases. This pressure can cause stomach acid to return to the esophagus and cause heartburn. 3. Slow food digestion: Progesterone also slows down the movement of food in the digestive system. This slowness in digestion can lead to acid reflux and heartburn. Heartburn during pregnancy is common due to hormonal changes and physical pressure caused by fetal growth. With changes in diet, lifestyle and, if necessary, the use of appropriate drugs under the supervision of a doctor, this problem can be managed and its symptoms reduced. When should we see a doctor for heartburn? If heartburn is persistent and severe and does not improve with dietary changes or home remedies, it is best to see a doctor. It is necessary to see a doctor in the following cases: 1. **Severe or frequent pain in the chest**: If you have severe pain in the chest area that may be mistaken for a heart attack. 2. **Frequent vomiting or the presence of blood in the vomit**: These symptoms may indicate serious problems such as stomach ulcers or damage to the esophagus. 3. **Difficulty in swallowing**: If you have difficulty swallowing food or you feel that food is stuck in your throat. 4. Abnormal weight loss: Unwanted weight loss without a clear reason may indicate more serious digestive problems. If you see these warning signs, your doctor may order tests such as endoscopy or imaging to check the condition of your digestive system. Stronger drug treatments or more lifestyle changes may also be recommended. Additionally, in some rare cases, your doctor may consider surgery as a treatment option. Timely and accurate treatment can prevent more serious complications and improve a person's quality of life. Summary To manage and treat heartburn, it is important to first identify and avoid triggers such as spicy, fatty foods, and fizzy drinks. Also, following regular and light food patterns, along with maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, helps reduce pressure on the stomach. In case of frequent or severe symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor for a more detailed evaluation and to perform the necessary tests. Using prescription or over-the-counter medications under a doctor's supervision can help control acid reflux and relieve heartburn.