Sonoran Allergy & Asthma Center

Do You Have Heartburn?

What is heartburn?

Also known as (Gastro) Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), heartburn occurs where food and acid contents of the stomach escape back up into the esophagus. The cause of this problem is the weakening of the valve (sphincter) that opens into the stomach.

What are the symptoms?

A painful, burning feeling in the chest is most common. Nausea, belching, sour-bitter taste into the throat or mouth can also occur, especially when you lie down. Sometimes, GERD may occur without obvious symptoms.

What is the relationship of GERD to asthma?

Asthma can be worsened by untreated heartburn. However, if you treat your heartburn, your asthma may also improve.

Treatment strategies.

About 25% of patients will experience relief as a result of life style changes above. These include:

Sleep with the head of the bed elevated 4 to 6 inches

Do not eat within 3 hours of exercising or going to bed

Avoid fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, and mints

Avoid large meals

Lose weight

Quit smoking

Do not wear tight-fitting clothing and belts

If the simple measures described above do not relieve the symptoms, your doctor may need to prescribe medication. These medications can reduce stomach acid (Prevacid, Prilosec, Nexium, Protonex).