Here’s how to get your heartburn under control.

Everyone will deal with heartburn at some point, but if you’re dealing with it regularly, you may be wondering what’s causing your heartburn. If you find yourself dealing with heartburn two or more times a week, it’s time to schedule an evaluation with our Suffolk County, NY, gastroenterologist Dr. Ravi Singh.

What Lifestyle Changes Can Improve Heartburn?

Heartburn can certainly be an uncomfortable nuisance. The good news is that if you deal with this problem relatively infrequently, you can often handle this symptom on your own with remedies and simple lifestyle changes. Some lifestyle modifications that can reduce heartburn symptoms include,

• Avoiding spicy, acidic and fried foods
• Not eating at least two hours before going to bed
• Not lying down immediately after eating
• Avoiding coffee and alcohol
• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding high-intensity exercise or activities immediately after eating
• Wear loose-fitting clothing while eating

Along with following the lifestyle changes above, you can also manage your heartburn with the occasional over-the-counter antacid, which can neutralize stomach acid and alleviate heartburn.

What Remedies Can Improve Heartburn Symptoms?

Some home remedies could also ease heartburn symptoms, but you may want to speak with our Suffolk County, NY, gastroenterologist before attempting some of these remedies,

• Diluted apple cider vinegar (may work for some)
• Taking a probiotics
• Aloe vera juice
• Ripe banana
• Mixing baking soda in water

When Should I Turn to a Gastroenterologist About My Heartburn?

You should schedule an appointment with our Suffolk County, NY, team if,

• You deal with heartburn two or more times a week
• Your acid reflux or heartburn affects your sleep
• You develop a persistent cough
• You have trouble swallowing
• You start losing weight unexpectedly

Recurring heartburn could be a sign of a more severe condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires an entirely different and more comprehensive treatment plan to manage symptoms than the occasional bout of heartburn. Untreated GERD can alter the esophageal lining and increase your risk for throat cancer.

Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in East Patchogue, NY has been the gastroenterology leader in the Suffolk County, NY, area for over forty years. If you are dealing with heartburn, Dr. Singh can help. Call (631) 289-0300 to schedule an appointment at one of our three practices.