![]() Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and may be caused by bacteria, infection, chronic vomiting, or excessive use of alcohol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen. If you are experiencing severe abdominal pain or bloating in addition to heartburn, you may be suffering from gastritis. If these medications don’t work and your symptoms persist, it’s important to see your doctor since you may have GERD. Some of the most common include antacids (Tums), famotidine (Pepcid), and omeprazole (Prilosec). There are many different over-the-counter medications to treat heartburn and acid reflux. Heartburn despite using over-the-counter medications If GERD is suspected, your doctor may perform an endoscopy, a procedure in which a lighted scope is inserted into the esophagus, to examine the digestive tract. These damaged cells can transform into esophageal adenocarcinoma, a potentially fatal cancer. In Barrett’s esophagus, repeated exposure to stomach acid causes changes to esophageal cells. Over time, GERD may damage your esophagus, or lead to a serious complication called Barrett’s esophagus. ![]() However, if the LES is weakened or malfunctioning, stomach acid can reach the esophagus and cause repeated bouts of heartburn. When working properly, the LES serves as a barrier that prevents digestive acid from the stomach from leaking into the esophagus. Regurgitation of stomach contents into the mouth.Feeling like food is stuck in the throat.Burning sensation in the chest or throat. ![]() If you have constant heartburn, you should schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist. ![]() GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that connects the esophagus and the stomach. If you have frequent or constant heartburn (more than twice a week or heartburn everyday), you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Here’s when to call a doctor: Frequent/constant heartburn symptoms or heartburn everyday But sometimes, heartburn is a symptom of bigger problems, that require other solutions. Usually, it’s the result of eating certain foods, or simply overeating, and can be treated with over-the-counter antacids. It occurs when digestive acid escapes the stomach and irritates the delicate lining of the esophagus. Heartburn is a very common ailment that affects many people for many reasons. That burning, uncomfortable sensation in your chest? It’s probably heartburn. ![]()
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