Heartburn
It's a discomfort that plagues about 70 percent of Australians at some point: gastroesophageal reflux, commonly known as heartburn. Typically following indulgent meals, excessive eating or drinking, times of heightened anxiety, or during pregnancy, it manifests as a burning sensation from the lower chest to the neck, caused by stomach acid traveling up to the esophagus, resulting in pain and inflammation.
While often manageable, persistent heartburn lasting several days may warrant medical attention. Prolonged exposure to gastric acid can lead to esophageal inflammation, ulceration, and even hemorrhage, underscoring the importance of prevention and management.
Persistent reflux progresses to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), necessitating treatment to avert potential complications. While GORD can affect individuals of any age, occasional heartburn is typically associated with common occurrences like overeating or anxiety.
Although food is frequently blamed, many individuals experience reflux regardless of their diet. However, certain triggers such as large meals, fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, cigarettes, carbonated beverages, and peppermint are commonly linked to reflux onset. Recognizing and avoiding these triggers can help manage symptoms, as can refraining from bedtime meals and excessive coffee consumption.
With reflux being commonplace, healthcare professionals like pharmacists possess extensive knowledge on its causes and treatments. If experiencing reflux, consulting with a pharmacist can yield advice on suitable treatments, preventive measures, and symptom management.
