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Causes & Symptoms
Heartburn (acid reflux) tends to occur after a meal. It can be triggered by spicy food, alcohol, posture, pregnancy and even stress. In fact, in a recent survey, 63% of sufferers said they believed that a hectic lifestyle contributes to their symptoms (Ref: Gaviscon U&A, Ipsos, 8 Aug 2006).
If you are a regular sufferer you may be able to establish - from the following list of common triggers - which could be causing problems for you.
The way you eat...
- Eating large meals can cause your stomach to produce too much acid. Physically 'overfilling' the stomach can also create pressure and cause acid to escape.
- Eating irregularly can mean that acid levels don't have time to regulate themselves after meals.
- Eating on the run or just before bedtime can make it easier for acid to escape back up into the oesophagus (food pipe).
The types of food you eat...
- Fatty foods tend to stay in your stomach for longer because fats are slower to digest.
- Foods such as chocolate and mint may have a relaxant effect on the sphincter (ring of muscle) at the entrance to the stomach enabling acid to escape back up.
- Spicy foods, onions and tomato products are also thought to be triggers.
The types of drinks you drink...
- Caffeinated drinks and alcohol tend to increase acidity in your stomach.
- Very hot drinks and citrus juices can trigger heartburn.
Other known triggers include...
- Certain medicines, such as those for heart problems, asthma and high blood pressure can sometimes make your stomach produce more acid.
- Being overweight or wearing tight clothes can put pressure on your stomach.
- Smoking can encourage acid production and cause the sphincter to relax. It may also slow down the production of saliva which helps protect the oesophagus.
Many people can pinpoint the cause of their heartburn and take action accordingly, but if you are suffering regularly, or have any concerns, consult your GP.
If you are suffering from any of the following you should consult your doctor:
- Symptoms developing for the first time in mid or later life.
- Abdominal pain before or after meals.
- Persistent feeling of fullness, bloating or flatulence.
- Nausea or vomiting - particularly if it has bright red blood or dark brown bits in it.
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing.
- Ongoing loss of appetite/continued unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent diarrhoea, constipation or any alteration in bowel habit.
- Change in stools (bowel motions) especially if they become black, dark red, pale or contains mucus (slime)
- Bleeding or pain when you pass a stool.
- Generally feeling tired, lethargic or unwell in association with any abdominal symptoms.
(Guidelines from CORE and the British Society of Gastroenterology)
