Heartburn is a common condition that affects many people, often after eating certain foods or indulging in a heavy meal. The burning sensation in the chest, caused by stomach acid rising into the oesophagus, is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter remedies. However, when heartburn becomes frequent or persistent, it might be a sign of a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you’re experiencing recurring heartburn, it might be time to consider seeing a specialist.
What Is Persistent Heartburn?
Persistent heartburn, also known as chronic acid reflux, is when the uncomfortable burning sensation occurs two or more times a week. This can lead to other symptoms such as:
- A sour taste in your mouth, especially after eating
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation that food is stuck in your throat
- Chronic coughing or hoarseness
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
If these symptoms persist over time, it’s more than just typical heartburn. You might be dealing with GERD, which requires proper diagnosis and treatment from a digestive specialist.
GERD: A More Serious Condition
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile irritates the lining of the oesophagus. Over time, GERD can lead to complications like:
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)
- Esophageal stricture (narrowing of the oesophagus)
- Barrett’s oesophagus, which can increase the risk of esophageal cancer
In some cases, GERD may also affect your respiratory system, causing asthma-like symptoms or chronic bronchitis due to acid entering the airways.
When to See a Digestive Specialist
While occasional heartburn is common, there are certain signs that indicate it’s time to see a digestive doctor. You should consult a specialist if you experience:
- Frequent heartburn (two or more times per week)
- Painful swallowing or difficulty swallowing food
- Chronic cough or hoarseness, especially in the morning
- Unintended weight loss or loss of appetite
- Symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter antacids or medication
A digestive specialist can evaluate your condition by performing tests such as endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, or barium swallow, which help identify the underlying cause of your heartburn and determine if it is GERD or something more serious.
How a Digestive Doctor Can Help
If you’ve been diagnosed with GERD or are experiencing persistent heartburn, a digestive specialist can create a customised treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent complications. The first step is typically lifestyle changes and medications.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Your doctor may recommend specific changes to your diet and habits to reduce the frequency of acid reflux, such as:
- Avoiding trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
- Eating smaller meals more frequently instead of large meals
- Avoiding lying down immediately after eating
- Elevating the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
2. Medications
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications such as:
- Antacids, which neutralise stomach acid
- H2 receptor blockers, which reduce acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which heal the oesophagus by blocking acid production
In more severe cases where medications and lifestyle changes don’t provide relief, surgery might be an option. A procedure called fundoplication can strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing acid reflux.
The Risks of Ignoring Chronic Heartburn
Ignoring persistent heartburn can lead to long-term damage. Over time, untreated GERD can cause serious complications, including esophageal ulcers and scarring. These complications can make swallowing difficult and may lead to esophageal cancer in severe cases. Therefore, it is crucial to take chronic heartburn seriously and seek professional help.
Heartburn Treatment in Jalandhar
If you are experiencing persistent heartburn or suspect you may have GERD, it’s essential to consult a digestive specialist who can diagnose your condition and provide effective treatment. For residents of Jalandhar, heartburn treatment is available at PGI Jalandhar, under the expertise of Dr. Amit Singhal.
Dr. Amit Singhal is a highly experienced digestive specialist with a track record of helping patients manage and overcome chronic digestive issues like GERD. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, you can expect a comprehensive approach to finding relief from heartburn and preventing long-term complications.
Conclusion
Persistent heartburn is not something to ignore. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems and affect your overall quality of life. Consulting a digestive doctor like Dr. Amit Singhal at PGI Jalandhar can help diagnose your condition and provide the right treatment to manage or eliminate your symptoms. For anyone seeking heartburn treatment in Jalandhar, getting expert medical advice is the first step toward lasting relief. To get more information please contact us on : +918725064663
