Heartburn common but frequent pain needs doctor check – gastroenterologist warns
Occasional heartburn is normal, but frequent burning chest pain or sour taste may signal GERD, requiring medical assessment rather than self-medication, according to consultant gastroenterologist Owen Woghiren speaking with Premium Times Health Watch. He warned that persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing, food sticking, vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, black stools, unexplained weight loss, anemia or chest pain need urgent evaluation as they could indicate complications or cardiac issues mistaken for indigestion.
Triggers vary individually but large meals, spicy/fatty/fried foods (like heavily oiled stews), alcohol, carbonated drinks and coffee often worsen reflux in susceptible Nigerians. Eating large meals late then lying down increases risk—leave three hours between dinner and bed. Managing symptoms involves identifying personal triggers, reducing problematic foods, maintaining healthy weight (especially abdominal), elevating bed head at night, and cutting smoking/alcohol.
Long-term acid reflux can cause oesophagitis, ulcers, scarring or Barrett’s oesophagus (linked to cancer risk), though most heartburn sufferers won’t develop cancer. The key is getting proper assessment instead of medicating for years without finding the cause. If you’ve used heartburn medication for weeks or months, consult a doctor to address the root issue rather than just symptoms.
Will you track your heartburn patterns to identify triggers, adjust meal timing and portions, or seek medical advice if symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes?