That Burning Feeling: When Is Heartburn More Than Just Heartburn?

The Common Discomfort of Acid Reflux Almost everyone has experienced the uncomfortable, burning sensation of heartburn after a large or spicy meal. For most, it's a temporary annoyance that goes away on its own or with a simple antacid. But what happens when that burning feeling becomes a frequent, disruptive part of your life? It could be a sign of a more chronic condition known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Understanding the difference is key to getting the right treatment. At CentraCare Hospital in Belagavi, our Gastroenterology department helps patients find lasting relief from digestive issues like GERD. Heartburn vs. GERD: What's the Difference? It's a matter of frequency and severity. Heartburn is a symptom. It's the discomfort you feel when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus (the tube connecting your throat and stomach). Occasional heartburn is normal. GERD is a disease. It is diagnosed when you experience acid reflux more than twice a week on a consistent basis. Chronic exposure to stomach acid can damage the lining of the esophagus and lead to more serious complications if left untreated. Recognizing the Symptoms of GERD While persistent heartburn is the hallmark symptom, GERD can cause a variety of other issues, including: • Regurgitation: The sensation of acid or food coming back into your throat or mouth. • Chronic Cough: A persistent dry cough, especially at night.

• Hoarseness: A raspy or sore throat, particularly in the morning.

• Difficulty Swallowing: A feeling like there's a lump in your throat.

• Chest Pain: Non-cardiac chest pain that can sometimes be mistaken for a heart issue. Finding Effective Relief in Belagavi If you're constantly relying on antacids, it's time to see a specialist. A gastroenterologist can accurately diagnose your condition and create a comprehensive treatment plan. At CentraCare, our approach includes: 1. Lifestyle & Dietary Modifications: We help you identify and avoid trigger foods (like spicy foods, caffeine, and fatty meals) and suggest lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals and not lying down right after eating. 2. Medications: For many patients, prescription medications that reduce stomach acid production are highly effective at controlling symptoms and allowing the esophagus to heal. 3. Diagnostic Endoscopy: In some cases, we may recommend an upper endoscopy. This simple procedure allows the doctor to look directly at your esophagus to check for any damage and rule out other conditions. You don't have to plan your life around heartburn.