Frequent Heartburn Causes and Cures

Understanding the Causes of Persistent Heartburn

Over 30 million people in the U.S. are estimated to have suffered heartburn.  For some it may be an occasional bout, such as heartburn during pregnancy, but for others it can be a very common and unpleasant occurrence.

Persistent heartburn, or acid reflux as it also known by, is definitely something to see a doctor about.  Heartburn occurs when the fatty mass of tissue that is between the stomach and the esophagus does not work correctly or as well as it should.

This flap is supposed to keep the caustic acid in the stomach from going up into the tender lining of the esophagus. Over eating, spicy food, bending or sleeping after a big meal can cause heartburn.

Other causes of persistent or frequent heartburn are diabetes, tight clothing, improper food consumption, spicy food and obesity. 

And of the smartest things you can do is to keep a diary relating to heartburn food to help you figure out what may be the casue of it.

Heartburn Symptoms

Symptoms of persistent heartburn include:

  • common burning and pain in the chest behind the breast bone
  • acid coming up in the mouth

Treatment Techniques

The first technique many people reach for is over the counter medication.  Antacids such as Tums and Rolaids are popular choices, but if the symptoms persist, then it's best to see a doctor.

If you want to try natural solutions, then consider:

  • Chamomile
  • Ginger
  • Peppermint

Many sufferers of persistent heartburn rely on the natural herb teas. Chamomile is a very good herb that can give some relief to people who suffer persistent heartburn. Over the years it has been found that chamomile has a very soothing effect on the stomach and the nerves.

It is a good sleep aide. In Asia a common cure for a long time has been ginger. In fact ginger is used in many Chinese remedies. It works as chamomile calming nausea and soothing the stomach.

It has been known to help with inflammation which is good for persistent heartburn sufferers. It helps because its anti-inflammatory abilities will help sooth the irritation that is in the stomach lining and esophagus

Magnesium is a supplement that works on the same principle as antacids. It is a base or alkaline substance so it will help to neutralize the excess acid in your stomach. It can be better on your stomach to take magnesium than taking a lot of antacids. You get the benefit of natural heartburn relief by adding this one supplement.

Some natural heartburn relief is preventative. Eating papaya and pineapple or taking supplements containing them is good for your stomach. These foods contain some of the same type of enzymes used by your stomach. When you add pineapple and papaya, they aid your stomach helping with digestion. These two natural healers come in various supplemental forms.

Try out some of the natural mehods for frequent heartburn, and don't be shy about talking with your doctor.