What is Barrett's Esophagus?

Question: What is Barrett's Esophagus?Answer: Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus is replaced by tissue that is similar to that which is normally found in the stomach and intestine. The process of this change is called intestinal metaplasis. The normal esophagus, the muscular tube that extends from the throat to the stomach, is lined by a pinkish-white tissue called squamous epithelium. Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the normal lining, or epithelium, of the esophagus has been replaced by an abnormal epithelium. The Barrett's lining always begins at the bottom of the esophagus where the esophagus joins the stomach and extends upward toward the mouth for varying lengths.if(zSbL

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Your Guide to Gastritis

Treatment usually involves taking drugs to reduce stomach acid and thereby help relieve symptoms and promote healing (Stomach acid irritates the inflamed tissue in the stomach). Antacids or other medications, such as Tagamet (to decrease or neutralize gastric acid in the stomach) or proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, will usually eliminate the symptoms and promote healing. Medications known to cause gastritis should be discontinued. Gastritis caused by pernicious anemia is treated with vitamin B12.

Avoidance of certain foods, beverages, or medicines may also be recommended. Following a diet recommended for peptic ulcer sufferers may help. For recommended foods, and foods to avoid, you can follow these foods lists.

If your gastritis is caused by an infection, that problem may be treated as well. For example, the doctor might prescribe antibiotics to clear up H. pylori infection. Once the underlying problem disappears, the gastritis usually does too. Talk to your doctor before stopping any medicine or starting any gastritis treatment on your own.

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Acidic foods cause heartburn?

Foods don't cause heartburn just because they are acidic.
Some acidic foods, such as orange juice, do cause problems for heartburn sufferers, but it isn't because of the acid content. Even nonacidic orange juice causes problems for some people. A particular food may cause heartburn for some people and not for others, so it's important to keep a food log or diary to find out what foods trigger your heartburn.

Food Charts

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Any Heartburn Home Remedies?

Answer: Many people who suffer from heartburn -- whether occasionally (once a month) or chronically (2 or more times a week) -- want natural remedies for heartburn. While there are drug treatment options available, such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), they'd rather try home remedies first, or as an alternative if they have been taking medications for some time.

First, it's important that you see a doctor to be evaluated if you are experiencing frequent heartburn. Frequent heartburn can be a symptom of something more serious, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Once you receive a diagnosis, you can discuss your treatment options with your doctor. Also, you should never begin or stop any treatment without consulting a physician.

Effective treatment of GERD is important because, if not treated properly, GERD may result in serious problems, such as esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus. If a medication or home remedy isn't working to control your heartburn, it is important to discuss an alternative treatment with your doctor.

The alternative remedies listed below, such as apple cider vinegar and chamomile tea, have been used as home remedies for heartburn. However, it's important to note that in most cases there haven't been any clinical trials to support their effect on heartburn.

Some home remedies you may want to try are:

Baking soda is a natural antacid. If you dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of water, it can neutralize acid and temporarily alleviate heartburn caused by acid reflux.

There are some drawbacks to this, however. When you add baking soda to water, it releases carbon dioxide. That's what causes the fizz. This fizz can open the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to enable you to burp and help relieve the pressure from bloating. Unfortunately, though, opening the LES can also allow stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus.

DGL is another remedy used for heartburn. It is available in chewable tablets or capsules that you can break open and dissolve in water. You should not use DGL if you have been diagnosed with hypertension and/or are receiving treatment for hypertension. While it's not established medical fact, some people believe bananas may act as a natural antacid in the body. You can eat either fresh or dried bananas. Chamomile has been used to help neutralize stomach acid. It is also used by people as a stress reliever. People have reported that natural apple cider vinegar works for them. Apple cider vinegar can be taken in tablet, capsule, or liquid form. Fresh ginger is one of the oldest home remedies for heartburn. It is also used to help treat nausea. Ginger can be added to food when it's cooked, eaten raw, or consumed as ginger tea. Turmeric helps stimulate digestion and prevent acid build-up. Turmeric is used in curried foods. If you don't want to use turmeric in your cooking, it is available in capsule form and can be taken before meals. The juice from the aloe vera plant has been used to soothe an irritated esophagus. Aloe vera juice has a long history of use in Europe as a natural home remedy to relive heartburn. You should only use aloe vera juice that has been specifically prepared for internal use.

Again, it is important to remember that none of these remedies have been carefully studied or compared with standard medications for acid suppression. Before trying any of them, discuss with your healthcare provider.

Sources:

Carol Ann Rinzler, Ken DeVault, MD. Heartburn & Reflux for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2004. ISBN: 0-7645-5688-6

Magee, Elaine: Tell Me What to Eat If I Have Acid Reflux. Book-mart Press: New Page Books, 2001, ISBN: 1564145743.

Rogers, M.D., Sherry A.. No More Heartburn: Stop the Pain in 30 Days -- Naturally. Kensington Publishing Corp., 2000.

Sklar, Jill and Cohen, Annabel: Eating for Acid Reflux: Marlowe & Company; Imprint of Avalon Publishing Group, Inc. 2003, ISBN: 1569244928.

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Swedish Meatballs

Most swedish meatball recipes usually contain fatty beef and lots of sour cream. This recipe is heartburn-safe because turkey is substituted for the beef and fat-free sour cream is used.

The first part of the ingredients is for the meatballs (mb) and the second part of the ingredients is for the sauce (sa).

(mb) 1 cup plain bread crumbs(mb) 2 egg whites(mb) 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg(mb) 1/2 ground allspice(mb) 1 teaspoon salt(mb) 2 pounds chilled ground turkey breast meat--------------------(sa) 2 tablespoons olive oil(sa) 3 tablespoons cornstarch(sa) 1/2 cup water(sa) 3 cups beef broth(sa) 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce(sa) 1 tablespoon fat-free sour cream(sa) Pinch of saltPreheat oven to 350 degrees F. To make meatballs, combine bread crumbs, egg whites, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and turkey in a large bowl. Mix with your hands. With wet hands, form turkey mixture into 1-inch balls. Chill turkey balls in refrigerator until ready to use. Pour olive oil in a large nonstick skillet and heat over a medium-high heat until hot. Place turkey balls into the skillet and brown until browned on all sides. Place turkey balls into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. As turkey balls are baking, prepare sauce. In a small bowl combine constarch and water, stirring until smooth. Set aside. Combine Worcestershire and beef broth in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Whisk in the cornstarch mixture and continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken. Remove mixture from heat and gently whisk in sour cream. Pour this mixture over the turkey balls and stir well. Serve warm.Serves 6 if(zSbL

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Causes of Sour Taste in Mouth

Answer: When stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus and reach the back of the throat, you may notice a sour taste in your mouth. This could be due to a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens inappropriately and allows stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus.

Normally, the LES works like a one-way valve, opening to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closing to keep food and digestive juices from flowing back into the esophagus. But if the sphincter relaxes when it shouldn't or becomes weak, stomach acid can flow backward into the esophagus, causing the burning sensation we know as heartburn and potentially a sour taste in your mouth.

Other symptoms of GERD can include:

Chest pain
This pain usually starts behind the breastbone (the sternum), and may travel up to the throat. It usually occurs shortly after eating, and can last from a few minutes to several hours. It is important to remember that sometimes the pain of a heart attack can be confused with the burning pain of GERD, and it is always important to seek medical attention if there is any doubt as to the origin of this chest pain.

Hoarseness in the morning
Irritation caused by refluxed stomach acid into the throat can lead to hoarseness.

Difficulty swallowing
Trouble with swallowing (dysphagia) occurs when food does not pass normally from the mouth through the esophagus to the stomach. There may be a sensation of food sticking in the throat or a feeling of choking. Difficulty swallowing should always be evaluated by a physician.

Persistent dry cough
In some studies, GERD accounted for about 41% of cases of chronic cough in nonsmoking patients. If refluxed stomach acid is breathed in, it can cause coughing.

Bad breath
When acid from the stomach comes up into the throat and mouth, acrid-smelling breath can result.

Heartburn can occur for a number of reasons. These include eating foods that often trigger heartburn, such as acidic foods (e.g. tomatoes and citrus fruits), drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, being pregnant, and being overweight.

If you suffer from chronic heartburn, you should speak with your doctor. The two of you can discuss a treatment plan that works for you. A doctor will usually suggest lifestyle modifications first. You can also reduce your chances of heartburn occurring by avoiding foods that can trigger heartburn, and learning how to sleep to prevent nighttime heartburn.

If these steps don't work to control your heartburn, your doctor will discuss other treatment options, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). An upper endoscopy may also need to be done.

Sources:

"Heartburn and GERD FAQ." American College of Gastroenterology. 8 Jan 2010

"Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 07–0882 May 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 8 Jan 2010

"Is it just a little HEARTBURN or something more serious?." American College of Gastroenterology. 8 Jan 2010

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Day One Sample Menu

Daily menu featuring heartburn-friendly foods and recipes. These are ideal for those individuals on a heartburn diet. Suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks are given. Each dinner menu shown here gives an Entree with a link to the recipe for its preparation, along with suggestions for side dishes.

Breakfast: 1 cup hot oatmeal cereal8 oz skim or 1% milk1/2 cup papaya slices2 slices whole-wheat bread1 tbsp margarine

Mid-Morning Snack:

Lunch: 1 1/2 cups cream of chicken soup Chicken sandwich (2 slices whole grain bread, 4 oz deli-style sliced chicken, 1 tbsp low-fat mayonnaise, 1 lettuce leaf) 1/2 cup raw carrot sticks

Mid-Afternoon Snack:

Dinner: Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff 1 small tossed salad 2 tbsp low-fat or fat-free dressing 1 cup steamed green beans 1 dinner roll 1 tbsp margarine

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10 Heartburn Facts

Fact #1:
Heartburn begins as a burning pain behind the breastbone, and it then usually radiates upward to the neck. There is often a sensation of food coming back into the mouth, and is accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.

Fact #2:
More than 60 million American adults suffer from heartburn at least once a month, and about 25 million American adults suffer from heartburn on a daily basis.

Fact #3:
Approximately 94 percent of sufferers can link their heartburn symptoms to specific foods.

Fact #4:
80 percent of heartburn sufferers report symptoms at night. 75 percent of heartburn sufferers say nighttime heartburn awakens them during the night, or prevents them from sleeping. 40 percent say that their nighttime heartburn symptoms affects their ability to work the next day.

Fact #5:
While lifestyle habits can worsen your heartburn symptoms, and increase the number of heartburn episodes, heartburn is a medical condition with biological causes.

Fact #6:
Heartburn is caused when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is located between the esophagus and stomach, is weakened or opens inappropriately. This allows acid and other stomach contents back into the esophagus, causing irritation.

Fact #7:
Lifestyle changes can often reduce the onset of heartburn. These include knowing what are the good foods and bad foods for heartburn, avoiding alcohol consumption, stop smoking and reducing stress.

Fact #8:
Heartburn is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. GERD also affects infants and children and adolescents. There are several ways to prevent the heartburn in adults and children, and several preventative steps for infants.

Fact #9:
Heartburn is more common among the elderly, as well as among pregnant women.

Fact #10:
Chronic acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, can lead to serious complications. The constant presence of refluxed acid in the esophagus can lead to conditions such as Barrett's esophagus , erosive esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and even esophageal cancer.

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Dangerous Nighttime Heartburn

Why is heartburn more dangerous at night? There are several reasons this may be the case, and why heartburn sufferers should take precautions.
When symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occur at night, they can be more damaging than those same symptoms during the day. If you are a GERD sufferer, you know how your symptoms can cause problems, such as the pain and the irritation. When you sleep at night, your body is less prepared to deal with these symptoms, and less able to prevent possible lasting damage. While we know from experience that acid reflux at night can disrupt our sleep, we also need to understand the other potentially harmful factors that can make nighttime heartburn more likely to cause damage.
These factors include:  
Sleeping in a supine position.
Laying flat in bed allows stomach acid to flow more easily into the esophagus, and stay there more longer periods of time then when a person is in an upright position. Even elevating the head and shoulders 6 to 8 inches will help keep stomach acid where it belongs, in the stomach.
 
We can't drink or swallow every time an acid reflux episode occurs when sleeping.
When GERD sufferers are awake and there's an episode of acid reflux, they often will rinse their mouth or swallow some liquid. Even swallowing saliva helps. When asleep, once the refluxed acid is in the esophagus or throat, the sufferer isn't always aware of it, and thus doesn't take steps to rinse the acid away.
 
There's an increased risk of choking on refluxed stomach contents.
If refluxed acid is in the throat and mouth, a GERD sufferer can inhale this into their lungs. Once in the lungs, it can cause a GERD sufferer to cough and choke on this aspirated material. The acid can also cause the same damage to the lungs as it can cause when refluxed into the esophagus.
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Anyone who is troubled with nighttime GERD symptoms should talk to their doctor. There are medications that can help control the acid reflux. The doctor can also discuss preventive measures a GERD sufferers can use to help prevent damage that can occur with nighttime reflux.
For suggestions on easing nighttime heartburn, read this nighttime heartburn prevention article.
——————
Updated: 02/14/2006
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Yogi Lemon Ginger, Herbal Tea Supplement, 16-Count Tea Bags (Pack of 6)

Our lemon ginger tea is based on a traditional formula that supports digestion, eases minor stomach upset and provides a refreshing herbal pick-me-up. We use organic ginger, used for centuries by Ayurvedic practitioners to support digestion and warm the metabolism. The sourness of lemon promotes the secretion of digestive juices and provides the perfect counterpoint to the piquant-sweet taste of ginger. Licorice and peppermint leaf add sophisticated nuance to the formula. Enjoy a cup of lemon ginger tea when your tummy needs a little taming, when you need to reinvigorate your body, or when you simply want a delicious, healthy drink.

Price: $27.00

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Memory Foam Wedge Pillow - Multifunctional (White) (11"H x 24"W x 21"D)

This multi functional bed wedge pillow elevates and supports the upper torso, allowing for better breathing and digestion while you sleep. It is a fabulous drug-free way to relieve nighttime symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux disease or GERD, and hiatal hernias. This wedge shaped pillow also helps decrease sinus congestion while you sleep, reducing snoring, and sleep apnea symptoms. This back bed wedge pillow is wonderful for watching TV, doing homework, or resting comfortably. It elevates you to a 45-degree angle that helps reduce swelling, and creates the perfect way to sit comfortably in bed, especially if you have to be in an upright position due to a medical procedure or condition. This wedge reading pillow is covered in an easy to remove, white cotton zippered pillowcase. View larger image and "Other Info" tab to see more details.*Important Note: This item is not returnable.* Assembly level/degree of difficulty: No Assembly Required.

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Heartburn-Free Kids Recipes

One of the leading triggers of heartburn is the food we eat. In addition, fatty foods can cause a lot of problems for those prone to suffering heartburn, so parents can do their kids' bodies a favor by finding low-fat options for school lunches. Since our kids have to eat, we need to do our kids' bodies a favor by creating an acid reflux diet for them with low-fat options for their favorite dishes.

Tuna Melts
Fat can be a heartburn trigger for some people. Tuna, when packed in water instead of oil, is low-fat. This recipe also calls for low-fat or fat-free ingredients, making it a safe choice for heartburn sufferers.

Crunchy Fish Sticks
You may think that fish sticks have a lot of fat, and if fatty foods trigger your heartburn, you may also think you can't eat them. This may be true of the fish sticks you buy pre-made in the storet. Fish by itself is low in fat. And with the recipe below, you can make your own fish sticks with low-fat ingredients, such as dressing and cream cheese, instead of fat-laden coatings and tartar sauces. You can enjoy fish sticks without the heartburn.

Chicken Nuggets with Rice
You may think that chicken nuggets have a lot of fat, and if fatty foods trigger your heartburn, you may also think you can't eat them. This may be true of the chicken nuggets you buy pre-made in the store or those from a restaurant. With the recipe below, you can make your own nuggets with low-fat ingredients, such as chicken breast and skim milk. These nuggets are tasty but won't give you heartburn.

Meatballs with Pasta
You may think you can't have meatballs if you suffer from heartburn. Using only lean ground beef and cooking without added fat can help you enjoy meatballs without the heartburn.

Chicken and Cheese Bake
Using low-fat ingredients, such as low-fat margarine and cheese, skim milk, and skinless chicken breasts, make this tasty recipe heartburn safe.

Pasta and Ham
Pasta prepared with low sodium chicken broth and low sodium ham. Lean ham helps keep this recipe heartburn-friendly.

Chicken & Mozzarella Roll-Ups
Using low-fat cheese helps make this recipe heartburn friendly. Using skinless chicken breasts are also heartburn friendly since fatty foods can trigger heartburn, but by removing the skin, the fat content of this meal goes down.

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Living with Chronic Heartburn

What we do in our daily lives will often determine whether we suffer from heartburn or not. If you suffer from GERD, your lifestyle habits can have a huge impact. Our lifestyle habits, from the way we dress to the way we sleep to the what and when we eat, can determine how frequently we suffer from acid reflux, and how severe those episodes will be. When we make changes in our lifestyles, we are able to have some control over these heartburn episodes.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals Large meals expand your stomach and increase upward pressure against the lower esophageal sphincter, and make it hard for it to stay closed.

Don't lie down for about three hours after you eat When you lie down within three hours of eating, the stomach acid that is working to digest your food may flow up into your esophagus causing heartburn. Gravity helps to keep the stomach juices from backing up into the esophagus and assists the flow of food and digestive juices from the stomach to the intestines is.

Limit your intake of acid stimulating foods and beverages You should eat foods that rarely cause you heartburn and avoid those foods that do. The foods and beverages listed below are known heartburn triggers for the majority of sufferers: Coffee, tea (decaffeinated and regular) Caffeinated beverages Carbonated beverages Alcoholic beverages Spices Pepper Onions Tomatoes and tomato-based products Citrus fruits (oranges and grapefruits) Fried foods Fatty foods Chocolate Peppermint When you eat out, you don't have as much control for your food and its preparation as you do at home. You can still enjoy eating out heartburn-free, if you know ahead of time what to look for and what to ask for.

When eating in a restaurant, don't be afraid to ask questions about how the food is prepared and what ingredients are used. You can ask for a substitution, and if you want, state that it's due to a health condition. Most restaurants are willing to accommodate you.

The following are the suggestions of what you should and shouldn't eat when dining out.

What you shouldn't eat: Fried foods, such as burgers, fried chicken and fried fish Foods prepared in butter or oil High-fat side dishes, such as French fries High-fat sauces, salad dressings, gravies and mayo Creamy soups Chili Dishes with lots of citrus fruit Peppers Onions Foods with a lot of extra cheese Tomato-based foods, including ketchup Citrus drinks such as orange juice and lemonade Caffeinated beverages Alcoholic beverages Chocolate

What is better to eat: White meat Lean cuts of meat Sandwiches with turkey, chicken, or roast beef on whole grain bread Grilled foods Broth-based soups Steamed vegetables Baked potatoes topped with low-fat salad dressing Low-fat or no-fat salad dressings Lighter desserts, such as angel food cake For some GERD patients, an occasional alcoholic drink will not cause any adverse side effects. For others, however, even a small drink will result in a bout with heartburn. Alcohol can increase the production of stomach acid, and it can also relax the LES.

For those who feel the urge to drink an alcoholic beverage, the following are a few tips for reducing the risk of suffering from heartburn: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda. Drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages -- the suggested amounts are 1 to 2 mixed drinks, 12 to 16 ounces of wine, or 2 to 3 beers. When having wine, drink white wine instead of red. Choose non-alcoholic beer or wine. Keep track of which alcoholic drinks aggravate your heartburn, and avoid them as much as possible.In numerous studies, smoking has been shown to have adverse effects on GERD symptoms. In these studies, the smokers were monitored using esophageal manometry or with a 24-hour ambulatory pH test. The results showed that when the test subjects smoked and for a few minutes afterwards, the LES relaxed, allowing stomach contents to reflux back into the esophagus. Other studies show that individuals who smoke and have erosive esophagitis will have longer healing times. Research has shown sleeping with your head elevated can help keep stomach contents where they belong -- in the stomach and not in the esophagus. Also, people who go to bed too soon after eating a big meal are much more likely to suffer from acid reflux than those who wait two to three hours after a meal to go to bed.

The following tips will help you to have a heartburn-free nighttime: Sleep with your head and shoulders elevated. Sleep on your left side. Studies have shown that this position aids digestion and helps with the removal of stomach acid. Wait at least two to three hours after eating to go to bed. Make sure your bed clothes are loose-fitting. Take an antacid when heartburn hits. Antacids will work very quickly on heartburn you may be experiencing before you go to bed. If you are taking an antacid more than once or twice a week, you should see your doctor about another treatment plan. Wait at least two hours after a meal before exercising. Exercising on a too full stomach can trigger heartburn. Check your medications. Some medications can worsen heartburn symptoms, so talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Sources:

"Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 07–0882 May 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NIDDK). 22 Jul 2007 .

"The Word on GERD." American College of Gastroenterology. 22 Jul 2007 .

Jill Sklar, Annabel Cohen. Eating for Acid Reflux: A Handbook and Cookbook for Those with Heartburn. New York, NY: Marlowe & Company, 2003.

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Heartburn-Free School Lunches

School lunches prepared by a school can often be higher in fat, which can be a heartburn trigger for those children and teens who suffer from chronic heartburn or GERD. The best option, therefore, may be for kids to take home prepared lunches to school.

Fatty foods can cause a lot of problems for those prone to suffering heartburn, so parents can do their kids' bodies a favor by finding low-fat options for school lunches.

The following tips can help parents prepare heartburn-friendly lunches for their children. Use fresh fruit, veggies, and whole grain crackers instead of cookies and chips. If using canned or individual serving packs of juice, select those packaged in natural juices, not syrups. For a treat, give kids baked chips instead of regular chips. For sandwiches, use whole grain breads instead of white, with lean cuts of deli meats (e.g. turkey or chicken) instead of higher fat lunch meats (e.g. bologna). Use reduced fat mayonnaise or light mustard instead of the regular mayonnaise. Give kids low fat yogurt instead of puddings. Pack small boxes of low fat or skim milk, bottled water, or 100% fruit juices in kids' lunches instead of sugar-laden juice drinks or sodas. Preventing heartburn goes beyond the foods children eat. The following tips can help can further help reduce the chances of heartburn. Make sure your child's clothing is not tight at the waist. Tight clothing can put pressure on the stomach, which in turn pressures the LES and can allow heartburn to happen. Have your child do something quiet immediately after meals. Especially with elementary-aged children, recess is common after lunch at school. Talk to your children about doing something quiet during recess, such as swinging, instead of something vigorous, such as running and jumping. Active play can trigger heartburn. Tell your children not to bend at the waist for 15 to 30 minutes after eating.

Additional resources:

Sources:
Marsha Kay, M.D., Vasundhara Tolia, M.D.. "COMMON GASTROINTESTINAL PROBLEMS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS." The American College of Gastroenterology. 16 Feb 2008.

"Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children and Adolescents." NIH Publication No. 06–5418 August 2006. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 16 Feb 2008

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Treating GERD

If you have had heartburn or any of the other symptoms for a while, you should see your doctor. You may want to visit an internist, a doctor who specializes in internal medicine, or a gastroenterologist, a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines. Depending on how severe your GERD is, treatment may involve one or more of the following lifestyle changes and medications or surgery. If you smoke, stop. Do not drink alcohol. Lose weight if needed. Eat small meals. Wear loose-fitting clothes. Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal. Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by putting blocks of wood under the bedposts--just using extra pillows will not help.Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter antacids, which you can buy without a prescription, or medications that stop acid production or help the muscles that empty your stomach.

 Antacids
Antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Mylanta, Pepto-Bismol, Rolaids, and Riopan, are usually the first drugs recommended to relieve heartburn and other mild GERD symptoms. Many brands on the market use different combinations of three basic salts--magnesium, calcium, and aluminum--with hydroxide or bicarbonate ions to neutralize the acid in your stomach. Antacids, however, have side effects. Magnesium salt can lead to diarrhea, and aluminum salts can cause constipation. Aluminum and magnesium salts are often combined in a single product to balance these effects. Calcium carbonate antacids, such as Tums, Titralac, and Alka-2, can also be a supplemental source of calcium. They can cause constipation as well.

Foaming agents
Foaming agents, such as Gaviscon, work by covering your stomach contents with foam to prevent reflux. These drugs may help those who have no damage to the esophagus.

H2 blockers
H2 blockers, such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR), and ranitidine (Zantac 75), impede acid production. They are available in prescription strength and over the counter. These drugs provide short-term relief, but over-the-counter H2 blockers should not be used for more than a few weeks at a time. They are effective for about half of those who have GERD symptoms. Many people benefit from taking H2 blockers at bedtime in combination with a proton pump inhibitor.

 Proton pump inhibitors
These include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and esomeprazole (Nexium), which are all available by prescription. Proton pump inhibitors are more effective than H2 blockers and can relieve symptoms in almost everyone who has GERD.

 Prokinetics
Another group of drugs, prokinetics, helps strengthen the sphincter and makes the stomach empty faster. This group includes bethanechol (Urecholine) and metoclopramide (Reglan). Metoclopramide also improves muscle action in the digestive tract, but these drugs have frequent side effects that limit their usefulness.

Because drugs work in different ways, combinations of drugs may help control symptoms. People who get heartburn after eating may take both antacids and H2 blockers. The antacids work first to neutralize the acid in the stomach, while the H2 blockers act on acid production. By the time the antacid stops working, the H2 blocker will have stopped acid production. Your doctor is the best source of information on how to use medications for GERD.

**********

The preceding information was adapted from the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, NIH Publication No. 03-0882 June 2003

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Prevent Heartburn Complication

There are several complications that can occur with long-term heartburn / acid reflux. These complications include Barrett's esophagus, esophageal cancer, esophagitis, and esophageal strictures. There are, however, six steps you can take that can drastically reduce your chances of developing one of these complications.

1. Make the necessary lifestyle changes
Heartburn symptoms can often be relieved if sufferers make a few lifestyle changes. Many people can significantly reduce the occurrence of symptoms by avoiding heartburn triggers and behaviors that contribute to acid reflux flare-ups. With less acid reflux episodes, there is less chance of esophageal damage. Follow these ten suggestions to significantly reduce the occurrence of acid reflux symptoms.

2. Watch what you eat
If you suffer from acid reflux, you need to know what foods are safe to eat and what foods to avoid. Most heartburn sufferers indicate their heartburn is worse after eating. If you can reduce the occurrences of food-related heartburn, this can go a long way in reducing the risk of complications. For example, drinking carbonated drinks may increase your risk of esophageal cancer. There are the foods with little risk of causing heartburn, foods that can be consumed in moderation, and foods that should be avoided completely. Also, knowing how to prepare foods will reduce heartburn. Check out this recipe index for heartburn-free recipes. Another resource to help you with your dietary needs as a heartburn sufferer is the Dining Out Guide For Heartburn Sufferers.

3. Keep track of your heartburn triggers
When you experience chronic heartburn, the first step to controlling your heartburn is to record what may trigger your attacks, the severity of the attacks, how your body reacts, and what gives you relief. The next step is to take this information to your doctor so the both of you can determine what lifestyle changes you will need to make and what treatments will give you maximum relief, and prevent complications. You can use this heartburn record as an example of what to track.

4. Learn how to prevent heartburn before it happens
Here are a few tips to significantly reduce the occurrence of acid reflux symptoms, and in most cases prevent the acid reflux before it starts. With less acid reflux episodes, there is less chance of esophageal damage.

5. Reduce nighttime heartburn
Nighttime heartburn can be the most dangerous. If frequent nighttime heartburn occurs, the risk of complications increases. There are several reasons reasons for this. For example, refluxed acid tends to remain in the esophagus for longer periods, allowing it to cause more damage to the esophagus. There are, however, a few ways to prevent nighttime heartburn.

6. Take prescribed medications
You should always contact your doctor if your heartburn occurs two or more times a week. While under the care of your physical, he or she may prescribe prescription medications or suggest over-the-counter remedies. There are alternative "home" remedies for easing heartburn. Discuss these with your doctor also.

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Heartburn New Year Resolutions

The beginning of a new year has always been a time we reflect on the changes we want or need to make. It is a time we make resolutions for change, and resolve to follow through on those changes. If you are thinking about making some changes in the coming new year on how you approach the care and treatment of your heartburn, the resolutions below will make a good start.

Photo by filipes (stock.xchng)Your doctor will likely suggest lifestyle changes to help you control your heartburn. Other options include using antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to control your heartburn. Learning what your treatment options are is an important step in controlling your heartburn.zSB(3,3)Photo by Sharon GillsonIt is important to keep a food diary or heartburn record so you can see what foods trigger your heartburn, and what helps relieve it.Photo by biewoef (stock.xchng)If certain foods cause your heartburn, mealtime may not be a pleasant experience for you. There are meal planning tips you can follow that can help you enjoy meals again.Photo by filipes (stock.xchng)Eight out of every 10 heartburn sufferer will experience heartburn at night. You can prevent heartburn from keeping you up at night by following a few nighttime heartburn prevention tips.Photo Courtesy of PriceGrabberHeartburn medication can work effectively for many people, but only if it is taken consistently and every day. If you find yourself forgetting to take your medication every day, you can try using a medication organizer. Some have alarms that will alert you when it's time to take your medication.Photo by Johanna Hantel (Getty Images)

It can take awhile to bring your heartburn under control. Don't despair if your heartburn isn't totally gone after your first dose of medication or after the first meal you eat that doesn't contain your trigger foods. It can take time to bring your heartburn under control, especially if it's frequent and severe.

Photo by lovleah (stock.xchng)If you know you are going to a family gathering or restaurant where you won't have as much control over what is being served, you can plan ahead and take the steps needed to avoid heartburn. You can let your family know what foods are your heartburn triggers. If this won't always work, you can plan on taking your own food that you know won't trigger your heartburn. When it comes to restaurants, planning ahead and knowing what to order will go a long way in helping you prevent heartburn while dining out.Photo by filipes (stock.xchng)There may be times when it seems that no matter what you do, nothing works and your heartburn keeps returning. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You can discuss your concerns with your doctor. The two of you may decide that a change in treatment is needed. Perhaps what you need is to be able to discuss your situation with other heartburn sufferers and get their tips for coping. The Heartburn Forum is a great place to do this.if(zSbL

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DGL Licorice for Heartburn

Answer: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a remedy that has been used for heartburn and other digestive ailments. While many people have used licorice to treat their heartburn, it's important to note that there haven't been any clinical trials to support licorice's effect on heartburn. It is also important that you consult your doctor before trying licorice or any other treatment for your heartburn.

How does DGL work? It doesn't reduce stomach acid itself or decrease acid reflux. DGL may soothe the tissues of the stomach and esophagus that have been irritated by refluxed stomach acid. It may also act as an anti-inflammatory. DGL has been used to provide some relief for the stomach and esophageal pain that can occur with acid reflux; however, remember that no clinical trials have supported its effectiveness.

You should not use DGL if you have been diagnosed with hypertension and/or are receiving treatment for hypertension.

You can alleviate heartburn by making wise choices in the foods you eat. One of the leading triggers of heartburn is the food we eat. Since we all have to eat, we need ways to prevent food from causing heartburn. The following tips can help you.

Avoid foods and beverages that weaken the LES muscle
These foods include chocolate, peppermint, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, fatty foods, and greasy or fried foods.

Avoid foods and beverages that may irritate the esophagus
These include citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and tomato-based products, chili peppers, and black pepper.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Eating large meals increases pressure in the stomach and against the LES muscle. It's better to eat five or six small meals instead of three larger ones. And remember not to eat too quickly. Putting your fork or spoon down between bites can help you do this.

Don't drink alcohol
Drinking alcohol before, during, or after meals can worsen heartburn because alcohol weakens the LES muscle.

Sources:

"Heartburn, Hiatal Hernia, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)." NIH Publication No. 03­0882 June 2003. NIH Publication No. 03­0882. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC).

"Herbs at a Glance - Licorice Root" National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

"Licorice: a possible anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer drug" National Center for Biotechnology Information

Rinzler, Carol, and Ken DeVault, MD. Heartburn & Reflux for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, Inc, 2004

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Side Dish Recipes

If you suffer from acid reflux, try these side dish recipes that will keep you heartburn-free. Side dishes can be creative, delicious, and quick to make too!

Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples
An easy side dish of baked sweet potatoes and apples that's naturally low in fat and high in fiber.

Broccoli Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This broccoli mashed potatoes recipe is a tasty combination of steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes.

Cauliflower and Cheese
Enjoy a creamy and delicious cauliflower and cheese with a fraction of the fat.

Cole Slaw
Cole slaw is a favorite side dish with any meal, and with the low-fat or fat-free ingredients such as milk, sour cream, and mayonnaise, you won't have to worry about heartburn that other cole slaw recipes may cause.

Grilled New Potatoes
This easy recipe is cooked in a foil pan right on your grill, perfect for summer cookouts.

Oven Steak Fries
Fried foods, such as French Fries, can trigger heartburn. Try this alternative to French Fries that are still golden brown and crispy.

Potato Salad
This potato salad recipe contains nonfat mayonnaise instead of high-fat mayonnaise, making it better for your digestive system.

Sour Cream Potatoes
These potatoes are good with any meal, and with the low-fat and fat-free ingredients (e.g. sour cream, milk, and margarine), you won't have to worry about heartburn.

Sweet Potato Fries
These low fat sweet potato fries are baked in the oven, and make a delicious low fat side dish.

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Symptoms

Knowing the symptoms of following digestive disorders can help you get diagnosis and treatment sooner.

Symptoms of GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus. Knowing the symptoms can help you receive a diagnosis and treatment sooner.

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Symptoms of Heartburn
Despite the name, heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. Heartburn is a digestive problem that occurs when stomach acid comes into contact with the lining of the esophagus, causing irritation. Most people suffer from heartburn occasionally, usually after a meal. These are the most commonly experienced symptoms of heartburn.

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Symptoms of Hiatal Hernias
50 percent of hiatal hernia patients don't experience any symptoms. For the other 50 percent of patients, the following symptoms may occur.

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Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the esophagus. It is important to know what the symptoms are for this type of cancer.

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Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers
It is important to learn the symptoms of a peptic ulcer in order to quickly receive needed diagnosis and treatment.

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Avoiding Alcohol

Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It also increases the production of stomach acid. If you want to consume alcohol, follow these tips: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda, drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages -- the suggested amounts are 1-2 mixed drinks, 12-16 ounces of wine, or 2-3 beers, drink white wine instead of red, choose non-alcoholic beer or wine whenever you can. To minimize alcohol's affect on your digestive system: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda. Drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages -- the suggested amounts are 1-2 mixed drinks, 12-16 ounces of wine, or 2-3 beers. When having wine, drink white wine instead of red. Choose non-alcoholic beer or wine. Keep track of which alcoholic drinks aggravate your heartburn, and avoid them as much as possible.Peptic Ulcers
An ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. Ulcers in the stomach are called gastric or stomach ulcers, and those in the duodenum are called duodenal ulcers, and both are usually referred to as peptic ulcers. Understanding the causes and symptoms of ulcers, and then getting a diagnosis and proper treatment, most people can find relief.

Mechanisms of Acid Reflux
There are three disturbances in the normal gastrointestinal (GI) function that can lead to GERD.

Gastritis
Gastritis is not a single disease, but means inflammation of the stomach lining. One of the causes can be drinking too much alcohol.

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