Johns Hopkins Health - Winter 2010 - Intl. - (Page 4)

quickconsult Feeling the Burn Occasional heartburn has fazed most of us at some point. But when is it just an annoyance or something more serious? How do I know when to see a doctor? The big worry with heartburn is the irritation of the esophagus, strictures or possible Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer, says gastroenterologist John Clarke, M.D. If you are having symptoms more than once a week, it’s worth talking to a doctor. If you’re having frequent heartburn and other symptoms such as weight loss or difficulty swallowing, or you’re older than 50 or have a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer, you should also talk to a doctor. He or she will want to rule out something more serious. What is heartburn? Heartburn is one of many symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It’s characterized by a burning sensation below the sternum that’s worse after meals. Heartburn is typically the most common symptom associated with GERD, but another common symptom is acid regurgitation. Should I have an endoscopic screening done? It’s somewhat controversial to do endoscopic screenings for everyone with reflux. However, if you meet any of the criteria or have had symptoms for more than 10 years, it’s worthwhile to get an endoscopic screening to ensure it’s not Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer. What treatments Dietary and lifestyle modifications are usually the first places to start. If you’re overweight, losing are recommended as little as 5 percent of total body weight can be very effective. Other changes such as raising the head of your bed between 4 and 6 inches (10 and 15 centimeters), avoiding tight clothes and for heartburn? eating at least three hours before lying down can be beneficial, too. Eating smaller quantities of food and eating foods that are low in fat may help. Also, avoiding certain types of foods and beverages that contain caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, garlic, onion and citrus may reduce your heartburn. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids that neutralize stomach acid are fine for occasional heartburn. Someone with more frequent or severe heartburn may require more aggressive therapy. To learn more about heartburn, visit hopkins-gi.org, or for appointments, call +1-443-287-6080. | 4 | johns hopkins health winter 2010 +1-443-287-6080 | jhintl.org http://www.hopkins-gi.org http://www.jhintl.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Johns Hopkins Health - Winter 2010 - Intl.

Johns Hopkins Health - Winter 2010 - Intl.
Contents
A SAD Time of the Year
Feeling the Burn
Balancing Act
Understanding Your Heart
Surgical Solution
A Weighty Issue

Johns Hopkins Health - Winter 2010 - Intl.

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