Heartburn

FACTORS THAT PROVOKE HEARTBURN

• Eating spicy, fatty, or fried foods (or certain types of foods);
• Exercising immediately after eating;
• Pregnancy;
• Changes in the normal position of the stomach, such as in obesity;
• Taking certain medications;
• Chronic stress.

WHICH DISEASES IS HEARTBURN A SYMPTOM?

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes reflux (or backflow) of stomach contents into the esophagus. A gastric ulcer is a condition in which the stomach cannot contract normally due to a formation (ulcer) on its surface. This causes acid to reflux into the esophagus. These processes, taken together, cause food retention and indigestion, as well as heaviness and high blood pressure.
• Inflammatory diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, duodenum): esophagitis, gastritis, duodenitis.
• Diseases of the pancreas, gallbladder, and liver.
• Tumors (benign and malignant) of the esophagus and stomach.
• Some other conditions include postoperative side effects and functional disorders.

WHICH DOCTOR TREATS HEARTBURN?

• Gastrointestinal diseases are treated by a gastroenterologist.
• Several main groups of medications are used to relieve heartburn symptoms:
• Antacids – to neutralize acidic contents;
• Alginates – a gel substance that protects the delicate esophageal mucosa and blocks reflux;
• Proton pump inhibitors – suppress the production of hydrochloric acid;
• Prokinetics – medications that activate peristalsis (contraction) of the stomach and promote faster movement of food.

For the comprehensive treatment of heartburn and a rapid (3-5 minutes after administration) effect, there is EZOFAGEL. It contains components to combat heartburn symptoms and protect the esophagus: hyaluronic acid, sodium alginate (to prolong the presence of EZOFAGEL on the surface of the esophageal epithelium), and antacids.

HEARTBURN PREVENTION

First and foremost, a proper and balanced diet without overeating. Furthermore, doctors recommend against lying down immediately after eating or engaging in intense physical activity involving heavy lifting. It's best to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.