The Problem of Heartburn for Americans

Heartburn is a common condition for millions of Americans, which, contrary to popular belief, has absolutely nothing to do with the heart. (Peikin, 2004) For some, it is a pain in the chest that occurs possibly once or twice a month. For others, it could cause them pain weekly or even daily. Heartburn that does not occur very often is referred to as episodic heartburn. (NHBA, 2005) Frequent heartburn, for obvious reasons, describes heartburn occurring daily or weekly to more than fifty million Americans. (NHBA, 2005)

Heartburn, as defined in the Webster’s New Encyclopedic Dictionary, is “a burning discomfort behind the lower end of the esophagus or of the upper part of the stomach.” (Merriam-Webster, 2002) It occurs just behind the chest bone, when digestive juices come up from the stomach and into the esophagus, irritating its lining. (NHBA, 2005) This happens if the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, is weakened or relaxed by certain foods, or medicines such as heart medications, or those for the treatment of asthma. (Encarta, 2003) Heartburn can occur as a burning pain in the chest that can move up, all the way to the throat. (King, 2004)

There are many causes leading to heartburn, many of which are what or how a person eats. Citrus fruits or juices, spicy foods, carbonated beverages, and alcoholic drinks are just some of the food-related causes of heartburn. (Peikin, 2004) When a person lies down or bends over, heartburn could possibly result. (King, 2004) Having a busy lifestyle or even wearing clothes that are too tight can also trigger heartburn. (NHBA)

Even though there are many causes for heartburn, there are almost as many treatments for it. Avoiding the foods and drinks which trigger heartburn helps in

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eliminating it. (Encarta, 2003) It also helps to stay away from midnight snacks (Peikin, 2004) and to keep the head of your bed elevated six inches at night. (Encarta, 2003) If the person is overweight, it may help to drop the excess pounds. (Peikin, 2004) A person who smokes should quit in order to help prevent heartburn. (King, 2004)

Over-the-counter antacids such as Alka-Seltzer, Pepto-Bismol, and Maalox are also recommended to treat heartburn. (NIH, 2003) Sometimes it just isn’t enough to make dietary and lifestyle changes, or even take over-the-counter medications. Prescription drugs such as Pepcid are useful in treatment. (Peikin, 2004) Home remedies such as baking soda mixed in water, aloe vera juice, and ginger ale have been used by families for decades for the treatment of heartburn.