Self-Care Pocket Guide • Stomach Upsets and Other Gastroestinal Problems
Heartburn

Overview

Your lower esophagus has a sphincter which functions like a one-way valve that allows food to go into your stomach but prevents stomach contents from going back into your esophagus. When it doesn't work properly, stomach acid and food can flow back into the esophagus. Because your esophagus doesn't have the same protective lining that your stomach has, these substances can cause pain and/or a burning sensation called "heartburn."

You're more likely to have heartburn if you're pregnant or overweight, have a hiatal hernia, overeat, lie down soon after you eat, or wear tight clothes that constrict your stomach.

Signs and Symptoms

• Burning pain or discomfort in your upper abdominal area or behind your breast bone.
• Belching and/or feeling that your stomach is full, you're bloated, or you need to belch but can't.
• Sour, bitter or acid taste in your mouth (especially after belching).
• Nausea/vomiting in more severe cases.
• Chronic cough or wheezing, particularly at night.

Self-Care Measures

• Take OTC antacids liquids or tablets before and after meals and at bedtime.
• Take an OTC acid reducer.
• Using blocks or boards, prop the legs at the head of your bed up 2" to 4" higher than the legs at the foot of your bed. Gravity may help keep stomach contents from flowing into your esophagus. Don't just prop yourself up in bed with extra pillows.
• Lose weight if you're overweight.
• Wait 2 to 3 hours after you eat to go to bed or lie down.
• Avoid acidic foods like onions and citrus fruit/juices, foods known to relax the esophageal sphincter such as peppermint, caffeinated foods/drinks, and spicy foods.
• For fever or pain relief, use an OTC analgesic with acetaminophen only to minimize stomach irritation.
• Minimize or eliminate the use of nicotine and alcohol.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals or snacks versus 2 or 3 large meals.
• Wear clothing that doesn't constrict your stomach.

Red Flags

CALL THE UHS 24-HOUR NURSE ADVICE LINE 475-NURS (475-6877) IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OCCURS:

• Heartburn associated with difficulty swallowing, persistent nausea/vomiting, persistent poor appetite, or weight loss.
• Heartburn that is frequent, doesn't respond well to OTC antacids or acid reducers, or that increases in severity over time.

CALL 911 OR GO DIRECTLY TO A LOCAL EMERGENCY ROOM IF THE FOLLOWING OCCURS:

Heartburn associated with any of the following, especially if you have a personal or family history of heart disease:

• Pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest
• Pain that spreads to your arm, jaw or neck
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Profuse sweating or significant weakness