Some heartburn patients resign themselves to a life of constant pain, reflux, and very limited dietary options. However, heartburn therapies are available that can make it easier to get through each day and eat without discomfort. Dr. Parviz Gholami can help you with the symptoms of heartburn at Calabasas Advanced Gastroenterology in Calabasas, CA.

What Causes Heartburn?

Heartburn is a discomfort in the chest that is related to a gastrointestinal issue. In addition to chest pain, acidic fluid flows up into the throat and mouth, usually after eating. Possible causes include:

• Eating spicy, citrusy or fatty foods.
• Excess weight.
• Using NSAID pain medications too much (aspirin and ibuprofen).
• Overconsumption of alcohol or smoking tobacco.
• Lying down too soon after eating.

When To Seek Medical Attention

When it is severe, heartburn is often diagnosed as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). You should seek medical attention from your Calabasas, CA, gastroenterologist when the heartburn pain becomes constant, which could indicate damage to the esophagus. If the heartburn becomes so severe that you can no longer eat food, lose a significant amount of weight as a result, or can’t swallow, that is another sign that you should seek immediate help. Frequent vomiting is another reason to schedule a doctor visit.

How Is Heartburn Treated?

Your doctor can treat heartburn with a prescription medication. A proton pump inhibitor can reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach so that it doesn’t regurgitate back up to the throat and mouth. Depending on the severity of symptoms, you may also need to have an endoscopy test to evaluate any damage to the gastrointestinal system. Surgical procedures can repair tissue in the stomach and esophagus.

Explore Heartburn Relief Options

To make positive changes to your digestive health, you must first change your mind about your daily habits and consider doctor-prescribed solutions. Dr. Parviz Gholami and his staff at Calabasas Advanced Gastroenterology in Calabasas, CA, can lead you in the right direction for heartburn relief. Call (818) 696-8840 today to schedule a consultation.