Heartburn manifests as a burning sensation behind the breastbone, often accompanied by acid regurgitation. The symptoms frequently occur after eating, when lying down, or when bending over. In most cases, a temporary backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus is responsible, which can be effectively influenced with simple adjustments.
Possible causes
Backflow of stomach acid (reflux)
The sphincter muscle between the oesophagus and stomach does not close completely, allowing acid to rise upwards. Fatty or rich meals promote this.
Diet and stimulants
Coffee, alcohol, spicy or very sweet foods as well as nicotine can intensify the burning sensation. Large portions in the evening also play a role.
Increased pressure in the abdominal cavity
Excess weight, tight clothing or pregnancy can promote reflux. The pressure pushes stomach contents towards the oesophagus.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1During the consultation, frequency, triggers and the connection with meals and body position are discussed.
- 2The abdomen is examined to classify the symptoms and rule out other causes.
- 3In cases of persistent or recurrent symptoms, further investigation, such as a gastroscopy, may be advisable.
What you can do yourself
- Distribute smaller meals throughout the day and have your last meal several hours before going to bed.
- Observe triggers such as coffee, alcohol, very fatty or spicy foods and reduce them if necessary.
- Elevate the head end of the bed slightly so that acid rises less easily during the night.
- Maintain a healthy body weight and avoid tight-fitting clothing around the abdomen.
Burning behind the breastbone together with shortness of breath, radiation into the arm or jaw, cold sweat or nausea can be a heart symptom: call 144 immediately. Difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, vomiting blood, black stool or newly occurring heartburn from age 50 onward should be assessed promptly, usually with a gastroscopy. If the symptoms persist despite adjusted diet or return regularly, an assessment by the family doctor or in gastroenterology is worthwhile. Even if the heartburn noticeably affects daily life or sleep, medical advice is advisable.
Frequently asked questions
- Is occasional heartburn a cause for concern?
- Occasional burning after a rich meal is common and usually harmless. However, if the symptoms occur frequently, medical evaluation is advisable.
- Can diet really make a difference?
- Yes, many people experience significant improvement in their symptoms through smaller portions, avoiding triggers and having their evening meal earlier.
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