Skip to content

Foods Inducing Heartburn as Listed by the Medical Practitioner

Foods such as fatty meats, rolls, and macaroni, according to Dr. Antyufyeva, are culprits that can lead to heartburn.

Foods responsible for inducing heartburn identified by medical professional
Foods responsible for inducing heartburn identified by medical professional

Managing Heartburn: Understanding the Risks and Preventive Measures

Foods Inducing Heartburn as Listed by the Medical Practitioner

Heartburn, a condition where stomach acid flows up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest, is a common issue that many people experience. Dr. Valeria Antyufyeva, a gastroenterologist at "S.M. Clinic", explains the potential risks of ignoring heartburn and offers some preventive measures.

Preventive Measures

  1. Dietary Changes: Diet plays a significant role in managing heartburn. Avoiding trigger foods such as high-fat meats and poultry (pork, duck, goose, lamb), lard, margarine, cream, fatty fish, spicy sauces, onions, garlic, peppers, tomatoes and tomato juice, baked goods, chocolate, coffee, strong tea, carbonated and mineral waters, citrus fruits and acidic juices, and alcohol can help reduce heartburn episodes.
  2. Lifestyle Adjustments: Dr. Antyufyeva advises quitting smoking, as it can exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Avoiding tight clothing and belts, reducing meal sizes, and avoiding late-night eating are also precautions for heartburn prevention.
  3. Sleeping Habits: After meals, it is important not to lie down for at least 1.5 hours. Elevating the head of the bed by 15 cm can help alleviate heartburn symptoms.
  4. Medical Intervention: If heartburn persists, it is crucial to seek medical advice. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for maintaining health.

Long-term Health Risks of Ignoring Heartburn

Ignoring heartburn can lead to several long-term health risks, particularly if it is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterized by frequent acid reflux into the esophagus.

  1. Esophageal Damage and Narrowing (Stricture): Repeated exposure to stomach acid can cause inflammation and irritation of the esophagus, leading to conditions like esophagitis. Severe inflammation can result in esophageal strictures, which are narrowing of the esophagus, making swallowing difficult.
  2. Barrett's Esophagus: This is a precancerous condition that occurs when the lining of the esophagus changes to resemble the lining of the intestine. Barrett's esophagus increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
  3. Esophageal Cancer: Although most cases of GERD do not lead to esophageal cancer, persistent and severe acid reflux can increase this risk. Early detection and treatment of GERD are critical to reducing this risk.
  4. Ulcers and Painful Symptoms: Untreated GERD can lead to painful ulcers in the esophagus.
  5. Impact on Quality of Life: Chronic heartburn can disrupt sleep, reduce appetite, and impair daily activities, significantly affecting overall quality of life.
  6. Respiratory Issues: Stomach acid reaching the lungs can cause respiratory issues, such as persistent coughs and hoarseness.

It is essential to address heartburn symptoms promptly to prevent these complications and improve overall health outcomes. This may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or further medical intervention depending on the severity of symptoms.

[1] Valeria Antyufyeva, M.D., "Managing Heartburn: A Comprehensive Guide," S.M. Clinic, 2022. [2] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)," U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2021. [3] Mayo Clinic, "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Symptoms and Causes," Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2021. [4] American Cancer Society, "Esophageal Cancer: Risk Factors and Prevention," American Cancer Society, 2021. [5] Cleveland Clinic, "Living with GERD: Managing Your Symptoms," Cleveland Clinic, 2021.

Read also:

Latest