Heartburn-Reflux Disease Information
Heartburn,commonly a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),can often be effectively managed with a combination of dietary changes,lifestyle modification and medications.
Medications, when taken properly,can play an effective role in the short and long term management of both the symptoms of heartburn and the health consequences of GERD. Proton pump inhibitors(PPIs),such as Prilosec,Prevacid, nexium and Protonix,should ideally be taken 15-30 minutes before the first meal of the day.
Avoiding chocolate,peppermint,fried or fatty foods,caffeine and alcohol may improve GERD symptoms.
Stopping smoking and weight loss both help to improve symptoms.
Symptoms
Heartburn or Heart Attack?
More than five million patients go to the emergency room each year with chest pain. While many of these patients are suffering from a heart attack, some actually may be experiencing severe heartburn. The pain caused during a heart attack and during a severe heartburn episode is so difficult to distinguish that sophisticated equipment is generally necessary to determine whether or not you are having a heart attack. To complicate matters even more, the two problems have many of the same symptoms and are more likely to occur in people over forty.
Here are some possible differences between the two ailments. Note: If you have any chest pain that lasts for more than a few minutes — or any warning signs of a heart attack do not try to decide for yourself — seek immediate medical attention.
Possible signs of angina or heart attack
A feeling of fullness, tightness or dull crushing pressure or pain generally in the center of the chest
Often occurs with activity or exertion
Pain may spread to the shoulders, neck, arms or jaw
Often responds quickly to nitroglycerin (unresponsiveness to nitroglycerin in the presence of angina or heart attack should be treated as a medical emergency)
May be associated with an irregular pulse
Often accompanied by a cold sweat and shortness of breath
Nausea and possible vomiting
Might experience lightheadedness, weakness or dizziness
Possible signs of heartburn
A sharp, burning sensation just below the breastbone or ribs
Pain generally does not radiate to the shoulders, neck, or arms, but it can
Pain usually comes after meals
Symptoms usually respond quickly to antacids
Rarely accompanied by a cold sweat, shortness of breath, lightheadedness or dizziness
DON'T HAVE Rx COVERAGE?Click Here to print out your FREE OPTIMIZERx Card and instantly begin savings on your next prescriptions!
