Heartburn in Pregnancy Understanding and Managing
What Is Heartburn?
Contrary to its name, heartburn is unrelated to the heart. When food and stomach acid go back up into the esophagus, it causes a burning or painful sensation in the chest and neck (the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach). This condition is called acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GER). When it occurs frequently and produces uncomfortable symptoms, it is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
How Can I Deal With Heartburn During My Pregnancy?
Heartburn is a typical pregnant symptom. Pregnancy hormones have the ability to loosen the stomach's valve, preventing it from closing properly and allowing acidic stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. Later in pregnancy, when the developing uterus presses up against the stomach, it may get worse.
To lessen discomfort or suffering from heartburn:
- Avoid foods and beverages that can exacerbate the condition, such as citrus fruits, spicy and fatty (particularly fried or oily) foods, coffee, and fizzy drinks.
- Consume multiple little meals during the day.
- When eating, take your time.
- Sip on liquids in between meals, not in them.
- Don't eat or drink anything three hours before going to bed.
- Steer clear of alcohol and smoke.
- After eating, fight the impulse to lie down.
- When you go to sleep, raise your head. You can prop your head on comforting pillows or raise the head of your bed a few inches.
- Consult your physician about heartburn medications that are safe to take while pregnant.
What Is Heartburn?
Contrary to its name, heartburn is unrelated to the heart. When food and stomach acid go back up into the esophagus, it causes a burning or painful sensation in the chest and neck (the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach). This condition is called acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GER). When it occurs frequently and produces uncomfortable symptoms, it is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
How Can I Deal With Heartburn During My Pregnancy?
Heartburn is a typical pregnant symptom. Pregnancy hormones have the ability to loosen the stomach's valve, preventing it from closing properly and allowing acidic stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. Later in pregnancy, when the developing uterus presses up against the stomach, it may get worse.
To lessen discomfort or suffering from heartburn:
- Avoid foods and beverages that can exacerbate the condition, such as citrus fruits, spicy and fatty (particularly fried or oily) foods, coffee, and fizzy drinks.
- Consume multiple little meals during the day.
- When eating, take your time.
- Sip on liquids in between meals, not in them.
- Don't eat or drink anything three hours before going to bed.
- Steer clear of alcohol and smoke.
- After eating, fight the impulse to lie down.
- When you go to sleep, raise your head. You can prop your head on comforting pillows or raise the head of your bed a few inches.
- Consult your physician about heartburn medications that are safe to take while pregnant.
