Many adults have experienced heartburn–an uncomfortable burning in the chest, typically centered under the sternum or breastbone. Heartburn can exist on its own, or as a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Where heartburn is a symptom, GERD is a disease. Most heartburn symptoms are treatable with lifestyle changes and over the counter medications. Prescription medications, medical treatments and surgical options are available for severe or chronic cases.
Instructions
1. Learn the signs and symptoms of heartburn. As mentioned above, heartburn causes a burning sensation that is typically in the center of the chest. Most sufferers note that the discomfort is positional and worse when they bend over or recline. Most individuals with heartburn also note a direct correlation to when and what they eat. Heartburn is usually more frequent and worse at night. It can also cause discomfort in the throat and sometimes regurgitation, leaving a sour or burning taste in the mouth.
2. Learn the signs and symptoms of GERD. The most obvious and consistent sign of GERD is heartburn that occurs with regularity. As with general heartburn, it is typically most noticeable when retiring at night, following a meal and in reclined positions. People suffering from GERD also can experience coughing and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
3. Consider making dietary and lifestyle modifications to relieve symptoms. If making changes to your diet and lifestyle relieve the symptoms, it is likely that your are suffering from less-serious heartburn. Work on making these diet and lifestyle changes permanent to remain symptom free.
4. Assess the frequency of symptoms. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD, but having heartburn does not mean you have GERD. Nevertheless, frequent, severe heartburn coupled with other GERD symptoms such as difficulty swallowing can mean it is more than just heartburn.
5. Determine how much it is disrupting your lifestyle. Many clinicians say the transition from a heartburn diagnosis to a GERD diagnosis depends on how much the symptoms disrupt the individual’s lifestyle. If symptoms are leading to an individual’s inability to rest, recreate or work, it is likely that the condition has progressed.
Tags: diet lifestyle, difficulty swallowing, Learn signs, Learn signs symptoms, lifestyle changes