Frequent heartburn is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can be a sign of underlying digestive issues that shouldn’t be ignored. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often rises into the throat, is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. If you’re experiencing this regularly, it’s important to understand what might be triggering it.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 causes of frequent heartburn and why consulting an expert like Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain, the best consulting gastroenterologist in Basavanagudi, is essential for long-term relief and health.
1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is the most common cause of chronic heartburn. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes abnormally, allowing stomach acid to flow back up. Symptoms include persistent acid reflux, chest discomfort, and a sour taste in the mouth.
2. Poor Eating Habits
Eating large meals, especially close to bedtime, can increase your chances of heartburn after eating. Spicy foods, citrus fruits, onions, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated beverages are common triggers. Overeating puts pressure on the stomach, pushing acid up into the esophagus.
3. Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition weakens the LES and can lead to frequent acid reflux. It’s a common but often overlooked cause of recurrent heartburn.
If you experience heartburn along with shortness of breath or chest pain, it’s important to get evaluated by a gastroenterologist in Basavanagudi like Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain.
4. Obesity and Being Overweight
Excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents back into the esophagus. Studies show a strong link between obesity and heartburn, especially in individuals with central (abdominal) obesity.
Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce symptoms.
5. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Nicotine and alcohol can relax the LES and increase stomach acid production. Smoking also reduces saliva production, which is a natural defense against acid reflux.
If you are a smoker experiencing burning in the chest, quitting may greatly improve your symptoms.
6. Pregnancy
Pregnant women often suffer from frequent heartburn, especially during the second and third trimesters. Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing baby can contribute to acid reflux.
Consulting a gastroenterologist for pregnancy heartburn ensures you get safe and effective treatment.
7. Certain Medications
Some medications can irritate the esophagus or relax the LES. Common culprits include:
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin
- Antidepressants
- Calcium channel blockers
- Blood pressure medications
Popular keyword: Medicines that cause acid reflux
Never stop any medication without consulting your doctor, especially if you are already under the care of a gastroenterology specialist in Bangalore like Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain.
8. Stress and Anxiety
Although stress doesn’t directly cause acid reflux, it can lead to behaviors (like poor eating or smoking) that trigger symptoms. Stress may also increase stomach acid production, making heartburn worse.
Mindfulness, therapy, and relaxation techniques can help manage stress-induced digestive symptoms.
9. Lying Down Immediately After Eating
Gravity helps keep stomach acid where it belongs. Lying down or reclining after meals can cause acid to move up the esophagus. Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
Elevating the head while sleeping can also provide relief.
10. Lack of Professional Diagnosis and Treatment
Ignoring frequent heartburn can lead to complications such as esophagitis, esophageal ulcers, or even Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition. This is why it’s critical to consult a specialist if symptoms persist.
Why Choose Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain?
If you’re looking for expert help, Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain is widely recognized as the best consulting gastroenterologist in Basavanagudi. With years of experience in diagnosing and treating complex gastrointestinal issues, he offers personalized care for those suffering from chronic acid reflux, GERD, stomach ulcers, and more.
He is known for:
- Accurate diagnosis using advanced endoscopic techniques
- Customized treatment plans based on patient history
- Compassionate care and long-term follow-ups
- Expertise in both medical and lifestyle management of digestive disorders
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consult a gastroenterologist in Basavanagudi if you experience:
- Heartburn more than twice a week
- Chest pain not related to the heart
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting or weight loss
- A persistent sore throat or cough
Ignoring these signs could lead to complications. A timely visit to Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain can prevent long-term damage and help you regain your quality of life.
Conclusion
Frequent heartburn is not something to brush off. From GERD to lifestyle factors, identifying and addressing the cause is crucial. Whether it’s due to poor diet, stress, medications, or underlying conditions like hiatal hernia, knowing what triggers your symptoms is the first step toward effective treatment.
For those in and around Bangalore, Dr. Parvesh Kumar Jain, the best consulting gastroenterologist in Basavanagudi, offers top-tier medical expertise to diagnose and manage all types of digestive concerns.
