Nothing helps with heartburn what to do. Severe heartburn. Mechanism of heartburn development
Pain behind the sternum and a burning sensation in the throat and throughout the esophagus is a sign of heartburn. It appears due to the unnatural reflux of fluid and food contained in the stomach into the mouth and esophagus. This leads to a feeling of "fire" inside.
Heartburn tends to appear most often after meals and during physical exertion. There are three degrees of severity of heartburn, which depend on the frequency of its occurrence.
- Moderate heartburn (1st degree) - an attack occurs once every thirty days.
- Medium (2nd degree) - occurs once every seven days.
- Severe form (3rd degree) - daily attacks with concomitant problems.
Heartburn can be a signal of some serious diseases of the body - gastritis, duodenal and stomach ulcers, toxicosis, etc.
Causes of heartburn
Heartburn can be caused by several factors, the most common of which is acidity. In addition, the following reasons can be distinguished:
- Binge eating. It helps to stretch the stomach and increase the release of acid.
- Diseases of the digestive tract.
- Stress and mental disorders.
- Smoking.
- Spicy food.
- Fried food.
- Citrus and tomatoes.
- Overweight.
- Pregnancy.
- Swallowing air while eating.
- Taking medication.
If heartburn begins to bother after eating, then this can not be regarded as a separate problem, but as a symptom of other diseases, which include duodenitis, cholecystitis, gastritis, peptic ulcer, diaphragmatic hernia, oncology, and the consequences of surgery. These diseases are often accompanied by pain in the stomach. Other causes of heartburn.
Consequences of heartburn
The occurrence of heartburn is due to the effect of gastric juice on the mucous surface of the esophagus. In the normal state of the sphincter, gastric contents cannot enter the esophagus. But when the work of the lower sphincter is broken, there may be a reflux of digestive juice even into the larynx. This happens when there are malfunctions in the motility of the stomach and duodenum. As a result, the mucous membrane of the esophagus is irritated, a burn is formed. This can lead to weight loss, dehydration, and bleeding.
Under the influence of acid, destructive processes begin in the esophagus, which after a while can lead to ulcers and erosions. These pathological processes can lead not only to serious illnesses, but also to death. Ulcers on the walls of the esophagus scar over time, narrowing its passage. The patient has a feeling of heaviness in the throat, he cannot swallow food normally. This condition not only causes a lot of inconvenience in everyday life, but can also be fatal due to the development of esophageal cancer. No less life-threatening and another consequence of heartburn is the rupture of the walls of the esophagus.
To avoid the occurrence of irreversible consequences, it is necessary to consult a doctor at the first signs of heartburn.
Heartburn treatment
The first thing the doctor finds out is the cause of heartburn. Only after that is therapy aimed at neutralizing the action of excess acid.
Important. The most common method of dealing with the "fire" in the esophagus among the people is to take baking soda. It is worth remembering that this remedy will not only not save you from an attack of heartburn, but will also lead to serious consequences. This is due to the rebound principle, when a sharp decrease in acidity is replaced by its sharp increase.
You can reduce acidity by drinking mineral waters that are not enriched with gas. These can be such waters as: Smirnovskaya, Kislovodsk Narzan, Borjomi, etc.
From drug preparations, you can take drugs of the prokinetic group, which improve the motility of the housing and communal services, thereby reducing acidity in the stomach.
Diet for heartburn
The main component of the treatment of heartburn is proper nutrition and steady adherence to the diet. The first step is to eliminate all harmful foods from your diet.
- Spicy, salty, fried, smoked and fatty foods.
- Fresh pastries and biscuits.
- Confectionery.
- Fatty dairy products.
- Chocolate.
- citruses.
- Tomatoes and sauces.
- Spices.
- Alcohol.
- Fried eggs.
- Coffee and tea.
- Sparkling water.
The heartburn diet involves steaming food. You can also cook boiled and baked dishes. In addition, complex diets should be present in the diet - durum wheat products, corn or bran bread, dark rice.
The menu of people suffering from heartburn should include the following products:
- Hard-boiled and soft-boiled eggs.
- Lean meats (chicken, turkey, rabbit, veal, etc.).
- Fat-free dairy products.
- Lean fish.
- Green tea.
- Various cereals.
- Juices and compotes from sweet fruits and berries.
- Apples, pears and bananas.
Treatment of heartburn with the use of traditional medicine
In addition to following a diet and taking medications prescribed by a doctor, you can use the advice of traditional healers. There are many different recipes, among which you can choose the best option for you:
- Infusion of flax seeds - applied warm before bedtime.
- Collection of chamomile, licorice root, St. John's wort and yarrow.
- Infusion of licorice root with honey.
- Potato juice.
- Chewing boiled peas or oats.
- Flesh of fresh carrots.
- Chamomile tea with honey.
- Pumpkin seeds.
Prevention of heartburn and its consequences
In order to avoid serious problems with the digestive tract due to exposure to gastric juice, a number of preventive measures must be observed.
- Eating should be normalized - you need to eat in small portions, but often.
- The use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, fatty and salty foods should be minimized, and ideally should be completely abandoned.
- All food must be chewed thoroughly.
- The last snack should be no later than 20.00.
- You need to drink plenty of fluids, at least 1.5 liters.
- Rest after a meal should not be spent lying down, it is better to just sit for an hour.
- You should not use medicines for any reason, it is better to endure a headache a little, rather than drink medicines uncontrollably.
The threatening consequences of heartburn will not come if you prevent its occurrence or start timely treatment.
Heartburn is a consequence of the release of hydrochloric acid into the esophagus. Usually, a burning sensation in the throat and behind the sternum occurs due to improper use, alcohol abuse and smoking, a tight belt, or during pregnancy.
If heartburn bothers you regularly (more than once a week with a normal lifestyle), consult a doctor to rule out diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
The main thing with such an attack of burning is to relieve pain. To do this, we have selected effective methods for every taste.
How to get rid of heartburn
Fast
- Water- A simple and affordable remedy for heartburn. A glass of pure warm water will naturally reduce the acidity and reduce the burning sensation. The main thing is to drink it while sitting or standing and not lie down after that.
- Soda. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda in 200 ml of water, drink in small sips. Use baking soda only in an emergency. Regular use harms the body. The use of soda for heartburn is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as people suffering from arterial hypertension and chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Activated carbon It is absolutely safe, even pregnant women can take it. It will absorb excess acid in the stomach, and heartburn will stop. Just take a couple of tablets with a glass of water. For greater effectiveness, crush 10 tablets, dissolve in 100-150 ml of milk and drink in one gulp. The only unpleasant consequence of the use of activated charcoal can be a change in the work of the intestines, so taking the remedy is constantly undesirable.
Tasty
- Almond able to neutralize gastric juice. If heartburn comes to you often, it will be useful to keep a bag of these beautiful nuts on hand. When the burning approaches to the throat, eat 5-10 things, carefully chewing each. Heartburn will disappear in a couple of minutes.
- Honey famous not only for the ability to treat a sore throat, but also for the ability to eliminate discomfort in the stomach. To combat an attack, drink a glass of warm milk with a spoonful of honey dissolved in it.
- Milk you can drink without additives, especially if you do not like bee products. Just 100-200 ml will help neutralize the increased acidity of the stomach.
Healthy
- potato juice relieves burning sensation and improves the general condition of gastritis with high acidity. It is absolutely safe even in late pregnancy. To prepare fresh potato, rinse and peel three tubers, grate them and squeeze the juice through cheesecloth. Let the juice brew for 2-3 minutes, but no longer, so that oxidation does not begin. Fresh can be drunk neat or diluted with other juices to improve the taste.
- Chamomile tea can be prepared by pouring 3 tablespoons of dried flowers (sold in a pharmacy) with a glass of boiling water. The tea must be infused for 20 minutes before it can be drunk, so this method of treatment cannot be called a quick one. However, it is chamomile for preventive purposes that is advised to drink three times a day before meals. Only three weeks - and frequent attacks will stop bothering you.
- Mint infusion. If signs of heartburn appear, pour a teaspoon of dried mint into a glass of boiling water and let the liquid cool slightly (or dilute with cool water). Drink warm infusion in small sips.
Heartburn prevention
Burning in the throat will no longer bother you if you follow some simple rules:
- Eat less, but more often. Ideally, every 2-3 hours.
- Limit your intake of foods that trigger heartburn. Everything spicy, fatty, fried, sour, as well as garlic, raw onions, sour fruits and chocolate is prohibited.
- Limit your intake of alcohol, cigarettes, strong coffee and tea: they irritate the stomach lining.
- Do not bend over or exercise immediately after eating.
- To reduce the risk of heartburn during sleep, raise the head of the bed 10-15 cm or sleep on high pillows.
- Try not to wear tight belts, bandages and corsets that tighten the area.
Which remedy for heartburn is the most effective for you? Share your secret recipes in the comments.
Photo: CITAlliance/depositphotos.com
People describe heartburn as an intense burning sensation in the chest and throat. And it occurs due to an inflammatory process that affects the mucous membrane of the esophagus, provoked by regular reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. Indeed, the composition of gastric juice includes hydrochloric acid, which has a strong irritating effect on the mucous membrane of the esophagus, which, unlike the mucous membrane of the stomach, has no protection.
Causes of heartburn
For such a phenomenon to develop, there must be provoking factors. These factors include:
diet
The most common cause of the problem is malnutrition and overeating. Most often, it is provoked by fatty, fried foods and smoked foods, sausages, sweets and especially chocolate, as well as coffee and carbonated drinks. Try to remove them from your menu and the problem may disappear.
Diseases of the digestive tract
The second most common cause of heartburn is diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum and gastritis. Moreover, gastritis can be both with an increased level of acidity of gastric juice, and with a reduced one.
Hernia of the alimentary canal
If the patient has a hernia of the esophageal opening of the diaphragm, constant heartburn is guaranteed to him. And this pathology can occur due to weakness of the diaphragmatic muscle or due to increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. Systematic heavy physical exertion, coughing, constant overeating, and constipation can lead to an increase in pressure.
genetic predisposition
If the valve located between the stomach and the esophagus is weakened, the reflux of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus is almost inevitable. In medicine, this phenomenon is called gastroesophageal reflux. Heartburn makes itself felt even in childhood. When a child with this pathology goes to bed immediately after eating, he may begin to vomit.
Symptom of the operated stomach
If a sick person was operated on and a stomach resection was performed, not only gastric juice, but also bile, as well as pancreatic juice, often enters the esophagus.
Cardiovascular diseases
In some cases, a burning sensation behind the sternum may indicate the presence of diseases of the cardiovascular system, and not the digestive tract. Burning can occur with hypertension and angina pectoris. It is easy to identify this - just take validol and observe the reaction of the body. If the burning sensation subsides, contact your cardiologist as soon as possible.
Pregnancy
Many women experience this problem for the first time during pregnancy. This is explained by the fact that hormones relax all the smooth muscles of the body, including weakening the valve. And for long periods, the uterus supports the stomach, which is an additional factor for the development of heartburn.
lifting weight
Very often, heartburn affects people whose work is associated with lifting weights. The reason is simple - when lifting a large weight, intra-abdominal pressure increases sharply, as a result of which the contents of the stomach are thrown into the esophagus.
Remember to follow a few simple rules, without which any treatment will be useless.
Nutrition
Food should be fractional. Portions should be small, and the break between meals should be no more than 2.5 hours. This measure significantly reduces the risk of heartburn. After eating, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes. And don't eat dinner later than two hours before bed.
Bed
The head of the bed should be slightly raised. Do not rush to the furniture store - you can just put a blanket rolled up under the pillow.
Bad habits
Try to completely stop smoking and drinking alcohol. They have a very strong irritating effect on the mucous membranes of the stomach and esophagus. If you can’t completely abandon them, keep the amount of consumption to a minimum.
Medications
Some medications, such as aspirin, can also cause heartburn. Therefore, if it occurs while taking medications, it is necessary to stop treatment and seek help from your doctor as soon as possible. He will choose another course of treatment.
Fractional nutrition
Often people “snack” during the day, and the bulk of food is received at dinner. This is a direct prerequisite for the development of severe heartburn. Therefore, try to eat little, but often - the break between meals should not be more than 3 hours.
Cloth
Watch your clothes - it is undesirable for them to be tight. Tight clothing puts pressure on the internal organs, including the stomach. And as a result, a person may develop heartburn.
Heartburn treatment
For treatment, antacids are often used - pharmacological preparations that envelop the mucous membrane of the esophagus. They relieve the inflammatory process and prevent re-irritation of the esophagus by hydrochloric acid, which is part of the gastric juice.
If the examination shows that a person has an excessively high level of gastric acidity, he may be prescribed drugs that lower it.
Such means include "Gastal", "Maalox", "Renny", "Gastal" and others. Before using this or that drug, carefully read the instructions. Do not take medicines on your own without a doctor's prescription.
Emergency measures for heartburn
If you need emergency help, you can resort to traditional medicine. All of these tools work quickly. However, remember that some of them are far from having the best effect on the condition of the stomach, so you should not abuse them.
soda solution
Dissolve a third of a teaspoon of soda in half a glass of warm water, mix thoroughly and drink in one gulp. Heartburn will disappear in just a few seconds. However, after a minute, a burp will come - the result of a chemical reaction taking place in your stomach. Doctors treat this remedy negatively, believing that it provokes the development of gastritis and stomach ulcers.
How does baking soda affect our body?
This method is so simple, affordable and effective that many simply abuse it. Fans of traditional medicine flatly refuse to understand why such a solution did not please doctors so much. Before you take on a box of soda, delve into the very process that takes place in your body.
Reacting with hydrochloric acid in the stomach, soda turns into carbonic acid. And it, in turn, decomposes into carbon dioxide and water. After all these chemical reactions, the contents of the stomach literally boil.
Bubbling CO2 gas irritates the walls of your gastrointestinal tract, which is taken with renewed vigor to produce new portions of hydrochloric acid. And what do we get as a result? After instant relief, acidity only increases.
The more ordinary baking soda is ingested, the worse it gets. And when sorting through this substance in the body, the acid-base balance is disturbed. And besides, the excess sodium that comes with this remedy contributes to the formation of edema and increased pressure. The logical conclusion is that such a “treatment” can completely deprive you of health. The problem of heartburn simply fades against the backdrop of new diseases caused by unsuccessful attempts to combat it.
Activated carbon
This emergency remedy is the most gentle for your stomach. For it, you will need 10 tablets of activated charcoal and half a glass of milk. Crush the tablets and dissolve in slightly warmed milk. Drink the resulting solution in one gulp. It does not act as quickly as a soda solution - after 30 minutes. But on the other hand, there is practically no damage to the stomach.
Sunflower oil
Did you feel the first "bells" of the beginning heartburn? Immediately go to the kitchen and take one tablespoon of any vegetable oil. In just 3-5 minutes, heartburn will stop bothering you. However, remember that sunflower oil has a laxative effect.
calamus root
If you have calamus root at hand, then it will help eliminate an attack of heartburn. To do this, it is enough to chew a small piece of calamus root for a minute and drink it with half a glass of water. Heartburn disappears quickly and does not come back that day.
raw peas
Do you feel heartburn coming on? – Chew two or three steamed peas every five minutes. After about half an hour, heartburn will subside. The remaining steamed peas can be stored for about a week, but only in the refrigerator.
vegetable juices
Squeeze 100 grams of cucumber or cabbage juice and drink in one gulp with a glass of cool water. After about 15 minutes, heartburn will subside. True, it can be replaced by increased gas formation.
Eggshell
If you often suffer from heartburn, keep eggshell powder ready. It is prepared simply - calcine two tablespoons of eggshells in a pan, and then grind in a coffee grinder to a powder. Heartburn sets in - just eat half a teaspoon of powder and drink water.
Salt
In some cases, you can get rid of heartburn with the help of the most common salt. As soon as you feel the approach of heartburn, immediately dissolve a few grains of salt, swallow salty saliva. After about two to three minutes, you will feel the heartburn subside. However, this works only in half of the cases - sometimes the opposite effect can be observed. Therefore, watch your reaction to see if this method suits you.
cool water
Plain cool clean water may help. Drink a few sips - and there is a high probability that heartburn will disappear without a trace. If the first time does not help - try experimenting with the temperature of the water. For some, colder water helps, while for others, warm water helps. True, the effect of this remedy is short-lived - after about two to three hours, the unpleasant sensation will return again.
Treatment of heartburn folk recipes
To prevent heartburn from returning, it must be treated. For the treatment of heartburn, you can use traditional medicine recipes. They are completely safe, do not have side effects and can be used to treat even pregnant women and children. The main thing is that a person does not have an allergic reaction to one or another component.
potato juice
Raw potato juice is an excellent remedy for heartburn. It can also be used to treat gastritis and peptic ulcers. In the morning on an empty stomach, you need to drink half a glass of freshly squeezed potato juice. In no case do not prepare the juice in advance - in just 20 minutes it will completely lose its beneficial properties. The duration of the course of treatment is at least 10 days. Heartburn will disappear sooner. But if you stop treatment, it will very quickly reassert itself.
Decoction of licorice root
Place 10 grams of crushed licorice root and 2 teaspoons of dry crushed orange peel in an enamel saucepan. Pour half a liter of water, bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 20 minutes, then cover and wrap with a towel. You need to infuse the decoction for 3 hours.
Then strain it with gauze, pour into a glass container, add two tablespoons of honey and mix thoroughly. The resulting remedy, a sick person should take half a glass in the morning on an empty stomach. The duration of the course of treatment is 14 days.
herbal collection
To prepare the next remedy, you will need half a teaspoon of plantain leaves, oregano, marshmallow root, caraway fruits. Place the herbal mixture in an enamel pan, pour two glasses of water and bring to a boil over low heat. Turn off the heat, cover the pot with a lid and leave to infuse for a day.
The resulting decoction should be taken one tablespoon before meals at least five times a day. The duration of the course is 10 days. In the same case, if the appearance of heartburn is provoked by gastritis, the course of treatment should last 21 days.
Flax seeds
An infusion of flax seeds will help to cope with even the most severe heartburn. You need to put two tablespoons of flax seeds in a thermos, pour ½ cup of boiling water over them, leave to infuse for 4 hours. Then strain the infusion and drink immediately. It is advisable to do this before bed. Treatment is 21 days.
Decoction of chamomile
Chamomile relieves the inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, eliminates heartburn. For treatment, a decoction of chamomile is used: place 5 tablespoons of dry chamomile inflorescences in an enameled container, fill them with one liter of water and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, then cool and strain, add a tablespoon of honey. Take the decoction twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. The duration of treatment is at least 14 days.
Aloe and honey
If heartburn is the result of gastritis or stomach ulcers, you can try to get rid of the disease with a mixture of honey and aloe. The mixture is easy to prepare. Pre-prepare aloe - place 5 aloe leaves in the freezer, leave for 10 days. Please note - the plant must be at least 5 years old.
Then pass the leaves through a meat grinder, add five tablespoons of honey. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, bring to a boil in a water bath and immediately turn off the heat. Stir the mixture again and transfer to a glass container with a lid. Store it exclusively in the refrigerator.
The composition must be taken half a teaspoon before meals, but at least three times a day. Heartburn stops after a day, and pain disappears on the third. The full course of treatment should last at least 10 days. With regular use, the treatment will be effective.
Plantain infusion
If smoking is the cause of heartburn, you can try to get rid of it with the help of plantain infusion. Place five tablespoons of crushed plantain leaves in a thermos, pour one liter of boiling water over it and close. It is necessary to insist it for one day, then strain.
Take 100 grams of decoction before meals. In just a day, heartburn attacks will decrease, after three - they will disappear completely. In order to consolidate the effect, continue treatment for 10 days. Please note - in no case should this recipe be used by people suffering from hypertension.
Buckwheat flour
Heat the frying pan, place 400 grams of buckwheat on it and fry. Then cool it, use a coffee grinder to grind it to a state of flour and pour it into a glass container with a lid. The powder should be taken one teaspoon before meals. The duration of the course of treatment is 21 days.
Decoction of St. John's wort
Place five tablespoons of dry St. John's wort in an enameled saucepan, pour in two glasses of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 20 minutes. After that, wrap the pan with a warm terry towel, leave for three hours. Strain the broth, pour into a glass container.
It must be taken before meals in half a glass at least 5 times a day. Relief will come within a day. But do not stop treatment for another two weeks - otherwise heartburn attacks resume very quickly. Please note that this remedy is not suitable for treating heartburn in pregnant women.
Mint
Brew dry mint leaves and drink as a tea two to three times a day for a month. Or, in a pinch, put a few mint leaves in your teapot along with your tea. Mint quenches acid, so this recipe is especially good for those who have heartburn from high acidity.
Decoction of yarrow and peppermint
A decoction of yarrow herb and peppermint helps to get rid of heartburn very well. Place them in an enamel bowl and pour one liter of water, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Then wrap the pan with a thick terry towel, leave to infuse for two hours, strain.
If gastritis has become the cause of heartburn, add half a teaspoon of honey to the decoction. It not only relieves inflammation of the stomach and esophagus, but also normalizes the level of acidity of gastric juice. The decoction is taken before meals in half a glass, but at least five times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is 21 days.
Decoction of chamomile and dill
If, in addition to heartburn, you are suffering from pain in the stomach, try the following remedy. Place one tablespoon of dill seeds and inflorescences of pharmaceutical chamomile in an enameled pan, pour one liter of water, bring to a boil. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and leave to infuse for 30 minutes.
Then strain the broth, add one tablespoon of honey, pour into a glass container. You need to store it only in the refrigerator, no more than three days - otherwise it will lose its properties. Take on an empty stomach 20 minutes before breakfast, one glass. The duration of the course of treatment is one month. Although heartburn, of course, will disappear much earlier.
cranberry and aloe
This recipe is especially good in the most severe cases, when no other means no longer help. To prepare it, you will need 100 grams of fresh cranberry juice, 2 tablespoons of honey, 100 grams of fresh aloe juice. Aloe pre-place for a day in the freezer, then squeeze the juice. In a glass container, mix all the ingredients - you should get a homogeneous mass.
It is necessary to take the remedy before meals, one tablespoon. Relief will be felt after the first application. The duration of the full course of treatment is 21 days. Keep in mind the remedy has a slight laxative effect.
Juices
If heartburn is not severe, you can try treatment with fresh apple and carrot juices. The treatment is simple - in the morning before breakfast, drink a glass of juice. You can make a mixture of two types of juice, or you can alternate apple and carrot juices. The duration of the course of treatment is 10 days.
Oat grains
Oats are a true ally in the fight against heartburn. Yes, and preparing a life-saving remedy is very simple - pour a tablespoon of oats with half a glass of cool boiled water and leave overnight. In the morning, carefully and slowly chew the soaked oats. Treatment should last at least three months - and for about a year you will not remember heartburn.
horse sorrel
herbal infusion
If heartburn occurs against the background of gastritis, you can prepare the following infusion. Take one teaspoon of dry plantain leaves, St. John's wort and chamomile inflorescences. Place the collection in a thermos and fill with one liter of boiling water. Insist for a day, then strain. It is necessary to store the broth in a glass container in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
It should be taken two teaspoons before each meal. Treatment must be continued for two weeks. After that, take a five-day break and repeat the course of treatment. Not only heartburn recedes, but the symptoms of gastritis also disappear.
Apple vinegar
It would seem that vinegar should increase the level of acidity of gastric juice. But not just apple - on the contrary, it normalizes it. So, apple cider vinegar helps with heartburn very well. It is enough to drink one teaspoon of natural apple cider vinegar every morning on an empty stomach.
To do this, it must be dissolved in half a glass of warm water. In addition, if you do not have an allergic reaction to bee products, you can add one teaspoon of honey to the water. Drink at least 21 days.
anise seeds
For chronic stubborn heartburn, when other remedies are ineffective, you can try an anise seed tincture. Grind one tablespoon of anise seeds, place in a glass container and pour 0.5 liters of vodka. You need to insist in a dark, cool place for at least one month, shaking occasionally.
Drink one tablespoon of anise tincture. This heartburn remedy is not suitable for teenagers and pregnant women as it contains alcohol. And those people who do not tolerate it well should also use this recipe with great care.
Chalk
Grind with a coffee grinder 200 grams of ordinary white chalk. Store chalk in a glass container with a lid in a dry place. This powder should be taken ½ teaspoon before meals. As a rule, heartburn goes away after two days. But the course of treatment should last at least one month.
Ginger root
Place two tablespoons of chopped ginger root in a thermos, pour two glasses of boiling water, add one tablespoon of natural honey and leave to infuse for one day. After that, strain the infusion and pour into a glass container. It should be taken in two tablespoons before meals. The course of treatment is 21 days.
Collection for heartburn and belching
In the event that, in addition to heartburn, belching appears, the following herbal collection will help you. Place one teaspoon of oregano, nettle, St. John's wort and plantain leaves in a thermos. Pour the herbs with one liter of boiling water, leave to infuse for two hours.
After that, strain the infusion, add three tablespoons of honey, five tablespoons of butter, mix everything thoroughly and pour into a glass jar. Take one tablespoon 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 7 days.
Onion with sugar
Grate one small head of onion on a fine grater, mix with sugar in a ratio of 1 to 1. Bring to a boil in a water bath, stirring constantly. Pour the resulting mixture into a glass container, place in the refrigerator. Take the mixture one teaspoon before meals. The duration of treatment is 14 days.
walnuts and honey
The mixture is universal - it restores immunity, prevents beriberi, treats peptic ulcer, and also eliminates heartburn. This mixture is prepared as follows: lightly chop the kernels of 15 walnuts, place in a glass container and add one hundred grams of honey. Mix thoroughly, cover the dish and leave to infuse in the refrigerator for 3 days.
If heartburn occurs against the background of gastritis or peptic ulcer, three tablespoons of freshly squeezed aloe juice should be added to the honey-nut mixture. In both cases, the treatment regimen is the same: a sick person should take one teaspoon of the mixture before meals. The duration of the course of treatment is 21 days.
Diet for heartburn
All these remedies for heartburn are quite effective. But only if the sick person reconsiders his diet. Follow your schedule:
- Don't overeat. It is better to eat more often, but in small portions.
- Don't eat less than two hours before bed. Moreover, even try not to lie down for an hour after eating.
- Try not to eat breakfast immediately after waking up - wait at least 15 minutes.
Many people know the unpleasant burning sensation behind the sternum, called heartburn, we do not perceive it as something serious. What does the average person do when they experience burning or pain in the esophagus? He uses a long-known folk remedy for heartburn - soda, diluted a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate in half a glass of water, drinks and safely forgets about burning in the esophagus until the next opportunity. Meanwhile, the connection between heartburn and esophageal cancer has long been unquestioned. It turns out that the harmlessness of heartburn is nothing but imaginary complacency.
How heartburn occurs
The cause of heartburn In technical terms, heartburn occurs when gastric contents get back into the esophagus, which, as you understand, should not be in principle, since the gastric mucosa and the mucosa of the esophagus are two big differences. The gastric mucosa is adapted by nature to an extremely acidic environment, which is created by gastric juice with digestive enzymes. The mucous membrane of the esophagus does not have the proper level of protection against "aggression" from these participants in the digestive process. If for some reason the contents of the stomach are thrown back into the esophagus, this can cause chemical (gastric juice) and enzymatic (digestive enzymes) burns of the esophageal mucosa, i.e. this most notorious heartburn. This reverse movement of food through the digestive tract is called gastroesophageal reflux.Causes of heartburn
- The most common cause of heartburn is excessive gluttony. Significant volumes of food do not fit into the limited space of the stomach and under the pressure that is created in it when food is mixed, the latter tends back;
- the use of a number of products: tomatoes, radishes, radishes, apples, plums, sorrel, alcohol;
- pregnancy. In the last trimester of pregnancy, a significantly enlarged uterus creates increased intra-abdominal pressure (times), in addition, the high level of hormones characteristic of this period causes a decrease in the tone of smooth muscles, richly represented in the walls of the uterus, esophagus and stomach (two). Read more about heartburn in this period of a woman's life and how to get rid of it in a separate article - " Heartburn during pregnancy«;
- heartburn can cause some drugs (aspirin, sulfonamides,), whose action is associated with an increase in the acidity of the stomach;
- a person may have naturally increased stomach acidity, which contributes to inflammation of the gastric wall and possible reflux;
- dilatation of the esophagus at the point where it passes through the diaphragm (Hiatal hernia). In this place, it should be narrow, in addition, here it is literally "at hand" to the gastroesophageal sphincter. If a hernia occurs in this area, then the sphincter will not be able to close normally;
- , against which dysfunction of smooth muscle tissue and an increase in acidity in the stomach are possible;
- neuropsychiatric disorders, hysterical conditions. All this “bouquet” of emotions has a direct impact on the autonomic nervous system, which “manages” the tone of the muscles of the stomach and esophagus. In addition, through the autonomic nervous system, the process of secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach is launched;
- heartburn accompanies chronic pancreatitis and reflux gastroesophageal disease.
Diagnostics
In case of heartburn, you should contact your local therapist or, more optimally, a gastroenterologist. Held:
- questioning and examining the patient. The abdomen is palpated (excessive tone of the abdominal muscles can be a marker of a serious inflammation that has developed), the chest is examined (a curved chest in itself causes reflux), the heart rate is monitored (angina pectoris has symptoms similar to heartburn);
- gastroscopy (full name - fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy (FEGDS)). This is a visual examination of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum 12. As already mentioned, with heartburn, the esophageal mucosa is inflamed, there may even be individual ulcerations, cysts, mechanical damage;
- contrast fluoroscopy. It allows you to trace the “route” along which food moves in the esophagus and stomach (in this case, of course, not food is used as a diagnostic tool, but special x-ray contrast agents). This method also allows you to look, as they say, from the inside at the stomach with the esophagus, while identifying possible pathologies (hernias, cysts, polyps and other neoplasms);
- analyses:
- (sugar level, level of gastric hormone gastrin);
- analysis of gastric juice for pH.
How to get rid of heartburn at home
I would like to draw your attention to the fact that this article will provide advice on symptomatic relief from heartburn, because it is not an independent disease, but just a sign of some disease or condition. Therefore, as they say, cope with heartburn, but do not forget about the treatment of the underlying pathology. Well, if we talk, for example, about heartburn during pregnancy, then after a happy delivery, it disappears on its own.
Heartburn medicines
Medicines for heartburn What should be done for heartburn in the first place? That's right: reduce the acidity of the stomach in order to neutralize the harmful effects of hydrochloric acid on the esophageal mucosa with a possible reflux. For this purpose, apply: Almagel (Alumag, Gastracid, Almol, Maalox), Rennie, Gastal. The main acid-neutralizing component in these preparations are aluminum and magnesium hydroxides, carbonate and magnesium hydroxycarbonate. Once again, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that antacids do not have any systemic effect, but simply allow you to forget about heartburn for a while. They do not cure the disease itself. The second group of drugs used to relieve heartburn are proton pump inhibitors. Their role is to reduce the production of hydrochloric acid by the cells of the gastric mucosa. These include Omeprazole (Omez, Cisagast, Ultop, Omizak, Losek Maps, Helicid), Lansoprazole (Helicop, Epicurus, Lanzabel, Lancid), Pantoprazole (Sanpraz, Ultera, Controloc), Rabeprazole (Rabelok, Pariet), Esomeprazole (Nexium).
The mechanism of action of the third group of heartburn drugs - H2-histamine receptor blockers - differs from the previous one, but the essence is the same: they inhibit the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. These are Ranitidine (Ranigast, Acilok, Zantak), Famotidine (Kvamatel, Famosal), Cimetidine. H2-histamine blockers have a long-term effect, however, due to possible serious adverse reactions, a medical consultation is necessary before taking it.
Folk remedies for heartburn
What else helps with heartburn? Many try to "extinguish" the burning sensation with milk. Yes, this will bring temporary relief, but after half an hour, the secretion of the stomach is activated - and then everything is over again.Can you drink baking soda for heartburn? There is also a double-edged sword here: soda neutralizes the acid, but at the same time, during the chemical reaction, carbon dioxide will be formed, which, in turn, irritates the gastric mucosa, stimulating it to produce hydrochloric acid. If you still want to relieve heartburn without resorting to medication, then it is better to cook oatmeal in water.
Heartburn prevention
- eat often (5-6 times a day) and in small portions;
- exclude from the diet products that can provoke heartburn, try to use less spices (pepper, salt), reduce fat intake;
- do not eat at least an hour before bedtime;
- enrich the diet with fruits, vegetables, wholemeal bread, i.e. everything that contains fiber;
- give up smoking and alcohol (especially) (this advice can be inserted into any article, but here it is more appropriate than anywhere else).
Severe heartburn is a pronounced burning sensation behind the sternum that spreads along the esophagus. Occurs spontaneously, usually some time after eating, especially when eating spicy foods. Less often, heartburn is observed after physical work, bending or staying in a horizontal position. To quickly get rid of heartburn, you need to drink water or take an antacid. However, seizures can occur again, worsening the quality of life of a person.
Unpleasant sensations that occur more often than 3 times a week indicate the presence of gastric diseases. Heartburn may be accompanied by hyperacid gastritis, ulcers, cholecystitis, diaphragmatic hernia and toxicosis of pregnant women. If it is combined with belching, we are talking about a peptic ulcer or erosive inflammation of the walls of the stomach. If the pain becomes stronger when taking a horizontal position, the patient may have diseases of the esophagus.
What causes heartburn?
The main causes of discomfort are increased sensitivity of the mucous membranes of the esophagus and a violation of the secretory function of the stomach. Often, heartburn indicates a violation of the functions of the digestive system, but in some cases, mental disorders contribute to its occurrence. No less common causes of pain and burning in the esophagus are an unbalanced diet and bad habits. The use of carbonated drinks, alcohol and hot spices leads to inflammation of the mucous membranes, which increases the production of acid and disrupts valve function.
Heartburn can occur when eating sour fruits, tomatoes, yeast bread, marinades, and fried foods. Overeating contributes to the stretching of the organ and provokes the production of acid. The pH of gastric juice may change when taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Heartburn causes acidic contents to enter the esophagus. Wearing tight clothing, pregnancy, being overweight contributes to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which causes a burning sensation in the esophagus. Heartburn can torment those people who lie down immediately after eating.
Persistent heartburn
The regular appearance of unpleasant symptoms is not considered as an independent disease. It is one of the signs of diseases of the digestive tract. The main causes of persistent heartburn:
- stomach and duodenal ulcer;
- duodenitis;
- cholecystitis.
Burning behind the sternum often occurs in the presence of a diaphragmatic hernia, in which the antrum of the stomach falls into the chest cavity through the esophagus. Hyperacid gastritis can also be accompanied by persistent heartburn.
Reflux syndrome is characterized by dysfunction of the esophageal sphincter, due to which gastric contents constantly enter the esophagus. Heartburn may occur after cholecystectomy and gastric resection. Excess weight and pregnancy contribute to an increase in pressure in the abdominal cavity. Hormonal imbalance can also negatively affect the state of the digestive system. Angina leads to pain, which is often mistaken for heartburn. The frequent appearance of this symptom should be a reason to visit a gastroenterologist. Self-medication is not only ineffective, but also dangerous.
Pain in the abdomen, accompanied by a burning sensation behind the sternum, often occurs in young people. The main reasons for their appearance are the production of an increased amount of stomach acid and increased contraction of the walls of the gallbladder.
Burning sensation in the throat
This symptom occurs due to the entry of gastric contents into the esophagus in violation of the functions of the duodenum. The mucous membranes have a neutral pH, so the acid burns and injures them. The inflammatory process ends with the formation of erosion and ulcers of the esophagus. The most dangerous complications of this disease are bleeding and organ ruptures. The healing of the ulcer is accompanied by stenosis of the organ, due to which the patient feels a lump in the throat and pain during the passage of food. This condition not only worsens the quality of life, but also becomes an indication for surgical intervention and increases the risk of malignant tumors.
Severe heartburn can visit a completely healthy person. However, seizures are less common. Women in late pregnancy also constantly experience a burning sensation in the throat. The growing uterus displaces the esophageal sphincter, facilitating its opening.
How to deal with heartburn?
To eliminate discomfort, folk remedies can be used. However, they are not able to replace traditional therapy. Treatment should begin with the organization of the correct diet. Decoctions of medicinal plants alleviate the condition, helping to reduce acidity and restoring the functions of the digestive system. To prepare the infusion of chamomile 2 tbsp. l. raw materials are poured into 200 ml of boiling water, insisted for half an hour, filtered and taken before meals. You can also use plain chamomile tea.
1 tsp flaxseed is brewed in 100 ml of hot water. It is recommended to prepare the infusion in the evening, the drug can be used in the morning. Before taking it, it is diluted with warm boiled water. You need to drink the infusion on an empty stomach for 2 weeks. Flax seeds can be ground, pour the resulting powder with warm water and drink in small sips. Dried angelica leaves are crushed and poured with 1 cup of boiling water, infused for 20 minutes and taken several times a day. Anise, dill and fennel seeds are taken in equal parts. 1 st. l. mix pour 200 ml of hot water. We accept 1 tsp. and get rid of heartburn. The product should not be used for more than 14 days.
Potato juice is highly effective for heartburn. The course of treatment is recommended during the period of harvesting a new crop. Potatoes are grated, the resulting juice is drunk on an empty stomach. You can start eating in half an hour. The course of treatment lasts 10 days, after which they take a break. For the treatment of diseases of the digestive system, an infusion of birch fungus is used. On its basis, the drug Befungin is produced.
Severe heartburn and pain in the stomach recedes with the use of oatmeal broth. The washed grains are crushed together with the skin. 1 st. l. raw materials are poured into 300 ml of boiling water, insisted in a thermos for 8 hours, and then passed through gauze. The resulting liquid is drunk 0.5 cup 3 times a day before meals.
If severe heartburn suddenly began, what should I do? In this case, there is no time left to make a decoction, it is also impossible to get to the doctor immediately. You can use almonds to neutralize the acid. Nuts are thoroughly chewed, pre-treated with boiling water. After a while, the heartburn goes away. No less effective are grains of barley or oats. They need to be chewed for 5 minutes, constantly swallowing saliva.
Do not use soda or milk. The effect of these funds comes almost instantly, as the acidity drops. However, after a while, the stomach begins to produce acid in even greater quantities, and an attack of heartburn occurs with renewed vigor. Long-term use of soda can contribute to alkalization of the blood and the development of stomach ulcers. Milk contains proteins that stimulate the secretion of gastric juice.
If it is not possible to get rid of severe heartburn with the help of folk remedies, the use of antacids is recommended. The most commonly used: Almagel, Rennie, Gaviscon, Phosphalugel. Do not forget that taking medications can cause diarrhea, constipation and bloating. In addition, they interfere with the absorption of calcium, which negatively affects the condition of the bones. Do not prescribe drugs on your own. When unpleasant symptoms appear, you should undergo a diagnosis and begin the correct treatment.
Diet for heartburn
It is recommended to eat steamed dishes. Vegetables need to be boiled or baked. Useful: potatoes, beets, beans, lentils. In the diet, you need to add foods that include complex carbohydrates: pasta, bran bread, dark rice. Approved for use: low-fat cheeses, kefir, cottage cheese, lean meat, fish, boiled eggs, apples, bananas, non-carbonated mineral water, dried fruit compotes, green tea.
You will have to refuse fried, spicy, salty and fatty foods. It is recommended to limit the consumption of sausages and smoked meats. You can not eat fatty dairy products. Sour fruits lead to a significant increase in the acidity of gastric contents, which can trigger heartburn. The secretory functions of the digestive system can be disturbed by the use of confectionery, cocoa, spices, fried eggs, tomato paste, black coffee, carbonated water. You need to remove fast food and convenience foods from the diet.
One normal diet for heartburn is not enough. Unpleasant symptoms can occur against the background of overeating. You need to eat in small portions, 4-5 times a day. You can not rush and have a snack on the go, food should be chewed thoroughly. Dinner should be finished no later than 3 hours before bedtime. It is not recommended to lie down for 30 minutes, you need to walk slowly or sit quietly. Can't bend. The amount of water consumed per day is adjusted to 2 liters, evenly distributing this volume.
To avoid the appearance of heartburn helps the following rules. While eating, you need to drink non-carbonated mineral water. It cleanses the walls of the esophagus from acid. Medicines should be taken in the doses prescribed by the doctor. If there is a need to lie down after eating, it is necessary to put a high pillow under the head. If the causes of heartburn lie in mental disorders, a consultation with a psychologist or psychotherapist is indicated. With a constant burning sensation behind the sternum, it is necessary to undergo fibrogastroduodenoscopy. A person should be attentive to his body, heartburn can signal the development of dangerous diseases.
