Do you know the difference between acid reflux vs. heartburn? If not, you’re not alone. A lot of people don’t know the difference, but it’s an important distinction to make. Both conditions can cause a lot of discomfort, but they are caused by different things and require different treatments. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between acid reflux and heartburn in detail. We’ll explain what each condition is, what causes it, and how to treat it. So if you’ve been struggling with either acid reflux or heartburn, this blog post is for you!
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux and heartburn are both common digestive issues. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can happen after you eat or when you lie down or bend over. Acid reflux can cause a burning sensation in your chest or throat, as well as nausea, bloating, and a sour taste in your mouth. If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, it’s important to see a doctor, as it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is similar to acid reflux, but it occurs lower down in the esophagus. Heartburn is caused by a mixture of stomach acid and digestive juices that flow back up into the esophagus. This can happen when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle relaxes or when there is increased pressure on the stomach. Heartburn symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest, acid taste in the back of the throat, and pain or discomfort when swallowing. Other symptoms may include belching, coughing, hiccups, and nausea.
Differences between symptoms of heartburn vs. acid reflux
There are a few key ways to tell the difference between heartburn vs. acid reflux. First, heartburn is usually worse after eating, while acid reflux is usually worse when lying down. Second, heartburn feels like a burning sensation in the chest, while acid reflux often causes a sour taste in the mouth. Third, heartburn is often relieved by antacids, while acid reflux is not. Finally, if you have acid reflux, you may have trouble swallowing, or you may feel like food is stuck in your throat. If you think you might have acid reflux, it’s
important to see a doctor so they can diagnose and treat the problem.
Treatment for Heartburn vs. Acid Reflux
There are a few different ways to treat heartburn vs. acid reflux.
- If you have heartburn, you can try over-the-counter antacids.
- For acid reflux, your doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce the amount of acid in your stomach.
- They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller meals.
- If you have severe acid reflux, your doctor may recommend surgery.
No matter what treatment you undergo, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and make any necessary lifestyle changes. With treatment, you can get relief from your symptoms and enjoy your life. Do you think you might have heartburn or acid reflux? Talk to your doctor today to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.
This is a common problem that many people experience. Don’t suffer in silence; talk to the Primary Care Physicians at Aqeeq Internal Medicine and get the help you need.