Heartburn and Reflux Disease: Relieving Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Through Diet and Home Remedies for Stomach Discomfort

The development of heartburn is closely linked to the function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Normally, this sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus acts as a valve that allows food to pass into the stomach but prevents the reflux of stomach contents. If this sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach is weakened, stomach acid can enter the esophagus. A hiatal hernia is a common anatomical cause that disrupts this mechanism. In addition, being overweight increases the physical pressure on the stomach, which pushes acid upward. Thus, heartburn is often caused by a combination of mechanical factors and individual lifestyle choices.

When people suffer from heartburn, the primary symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease is a characteristic burning sensation behind the breastbone. This pain behind the breastbone can radiate into the throat and is often accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth. Acid reflux occurs more frequently after eating or during physical exertion. Difficulty swallowing, a feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen, and pain when swallowing are also part of the symptom picture. In some cases, reflux disease manifests less typically as a chronic cough or hoarseness, as the rising acid irritates the airways.

Risk factors for reflux disease include:

• Obesity
• Diabetes mellitus
• Stress
• Sitting for long periods in a hunched-over position (for example, at a computer)
• Poor diet
• Use of certain medications (asthma medications, cardiovascular medications)
• Inflammation of the esophagus
• Esophageal diverticula
• A malignant condition of the stomach or esophagus, or
• Spasms of the esophageal muscles (esophageal motility disorders, achalasia)

There are many factors that can trigger heartburn. In addition to physical predisposition, stimulants such as alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine play a major role, as they relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Certain medications can also lead to increased reflux as a side effect. Another important factor is pregnancy, as the growing fetus increases pressure on the stomach. Heartburn is also common in people experiencing significant psychological stress, as this can stimulate acid production in the stomach.

Adjusting your lifestyle is the first step toward relief. Eating several small meals throughout the day is much easier on the stomach than a few large meals, as it keeps the stomach contents to a minimum. Avoid very fatty, spicy, or high-sugar foods, as these stimulate the production of stomach acid. Those who suffer from frequent heartburn should also make sure to eat their last meal at least three hours before bedtime so that stomach contents cannot flow back into the esophagus while lying down.

Triggers for heartburn include:

• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Nicotine
• Cola
• Sweets (e.g., gummy bears, chocolate) or
• Large amounts of citrus fruits

Some people also react negatively to hot spices or peppermint oil, or to tomatoes and fresh bread.

If diet isn’t the cause of heartburn, other causes may be to blame.

Many people have a leak at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. This means that the sphincter at the end of the esophagus (esophageal sphincter) is not functioning properly. 

This leakage is caused by a hiatal hernia or cardia insufficiency. It makes those affected particularly prone to heartburn.

When pressure builds up in the abdomen, the sphincter relaxes, allowing acidic stomach contents to flow back up into the esophagus. These symptoms are therefore particularly common during pregnancy.

In most cases, heartburn subsides quickly. This is referred to as physiological reflux.

However, if heartburn occurs more than twice a week or does not go away, it may be a sign of reflux disease. In that case, it is necessary to see a doctor.

Heartburn often causes pain located behind the breastbone. This is accompanied by acid reflux and a pressing, bloated sensation in the upper abdomen.

Irritation of the mucous membranes and rising stomach acid can also lead to coughing and hoarseness.

In severe cases, chronic heartburn or established gastroesophageal reflux disease can also damage the teeth.

Persistent backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus can lead to inflammation of the esophagus. 

Over time, this can lead to the following conditions:

• Blood loss
• Scarring
• Chronic laryngitis
• Pneumonia or
• Esophageal cancer

If heartburn does not go away on its own or occurs frequently, you should see a doctor. The doctor will then examine you to determine the cause of the frequent heartburn.

This evaluation is usually performed via gastroscopy (upper endoscopy). 

In rare cases, additional procedures may be used, such as:

• pH monitoring
• Esophageal pressure measurement (manometry)
• Impedance measurement, or
• Computed tomography

An X-ray examination is another possible diagnostic method for investigating heartburn.

When acute symptoms such as heartburn occur, simple home remedies can often provide initial relief. Drinking still water or unsweetened tea helps flush the acid back into the esophagus and dilute it. Chewing almonds or eating oatmeal can also bind and neutralize excess stomach acid. Another proven method for short-term digestive relief is sleeping with your upper body elevated to prevent nighttime reflux of stomach acid.

In cases of chronic heartburn, a change in diet is often not enough. Various medications are used in such cases. Antacids can quickly relieve mild symptoms by neutralizing the existing acid. In cases of severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, a doctor will usually prescribe a proton pump inhibitor, which blocks acid production directly at the source. This is particularly important for preventing chronic inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis). In severe cases of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), surgical treatment may also be considered.

If other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary. This is known as antireflux surgery.

If you frequently suffer from heartburn, general measures can help alleviate the symptoms. These include sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated and avoiding trigger foods and beverages.

Most people tolerate still water better than carbonated water. You should avoid sitting for long periods or engaging in activities that require you to bend forward.

It is recommended to wait at least 2 hours after your last meal before going to bed. If you are overweight, you should lose weight.

Heartburn is a constant companion during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. Hormonal changes cause the tissues to soften, which also affects the lower esophageal sphincter. At the same time, the uterus pushes the stomach upward. Special caution is advised when taking medications; natural home remedies and small meals are the main focus of treatment in this case.