Researchers estimate that approximately 60 million people in the United States experience heartburn periodically. Adults, teens, and even infants are vulnerable to the burning chest discomfort that can make life miserable for a time.
Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology can help. Read what they say about the differences between heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD and why it matters to your overall health.
Heartburn is a symptom, not a condition, that occurs when stomach acid encounters the tissues lining the esophagus, resulting in irritation that often causes a burning sensation in the chest.
The discomfort may radiate toward the neck, jaw, or back and can last minutes to hours. It typically occurs after a large meal. Acidic, fried, or spicy foods, eating too quickly, and lying down after eating may also trigger heartburn.
Over-the-counter antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and relieve your symptoms, but frequent heartburn may indicate a more serious issue.
Acid reflux describes the process of stomach acid flowing back (or "refluxing") into the esophagus. This corrosive material irritates the esophageal lining and leads to the sensation of heartburn.
Along with heartburn, reflux symptoms can include nausea, bloating, sore throat, and coughing.
The underlying cause is a loosening or weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter. This circle of muscular tissue connects the esophagus to the stomach and ordinarily closes tightly after you swallow, preventing stomach acids from washing back up into the esophagus.
Obesity, certain foods (e.g., citrus, chocolate, caffeine, fatty foods), large meals, and habits like lying down after a meal can interfere with the sphincter’s ability to close. Other conditions, like a hiatal hernia, can also play a role in acid reflux.
Depending on the cause, occasional acid reflux and the resulting heartburn are not usually concerning. Over-the-counter antacids can reduce symptoms, and lifestyle changes such as diet modification help prevent episodes.
However, more frequent bouts of acid reflux can cause long-term damage to the esophagus and may indicate a more complex medical condition.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic (long-term) condition. Dr. Chattoo may diagnose GERD when you experience acid reflux more than twice a week or when symptoms significantly impact daily life.
Symptoms of GERD include:
Because frequent exposure to stomach acid can damage the esophagus, leading to more severe conditions like esophagitis, strictures, or even Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition), GERD often requires long-term treatment.
Dr. Chattoo develops personalized treatment plans for GERD that may include dietary modifications, weight loss, and avoiding triggers like stressful eating. He may also prescribe medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, to help reduce stomach acid.
He may also prescribe medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, to help reduce stomach acid.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Chattoo at Hudson River Gastroenterology today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
