Most people will suffer from heartburn at some point in their lives. While this is a non-fatal experience, those dealing with the pain and discomfort associated with heartburn may quickly run to the computer to search for a “cardiologist near me.” Our team at Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island wants to assure you that occasional heartburn is very common, and should be no cause for alarm. However, if you believe this condition is flaring up more often than it should, you look to us for help right away.
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn, as the name may suggest, is a burning pain that takes place in the chest, usually right behind the breastbone. This condition occurs when stomach acid begins to back up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. When the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus become abnormally weak, this can allow the backup of stomach acid to take place, causing the feeling of heartburn. When they below symptoms become present, consider reaching out to our team for assistance:
- Bitter or acidic taste in your mouth.
- Burning pain in the chest that occurs after you eat or at night.
- Experiencing pain that worsens upon lying down or bending over.
Potential Complications
Those who only deal with heartburn once in a while typically don’t need to seek out professional help. However, if you find that this condition occurs often, letting it linger can lead to some unfortunate complications. Repeated heartburn can cause erosion and ulcers to take place in the esophageal lining. It can also lead to the precancerous condition known as Barrett’s esophagus, which makes potentially dangerous changes to the cells of your esophageal wall. By working with our knowledgeable staff, you’ll be able to reduce the risks of this occurring.
Treatment With A Cardiologist Near Me
Treatments of heartburn will vary based on the severity of your condition. For minor cases, our cardiologists may only recommend making small changes to your diet. Foods such as onions, citric products, or anything spicy tend to trigger heartburn, so avoiding them may be the best solution. For more severe cases, our team may prescribe medications to neutralize and reduce stomach acid, keeping your esophagus safe.
If you’ve been scouring search engines constantly for a “cardiologist near me,” consider ending your search with us. Here at Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island, we take a holistic approach to heart health. By focusing on your body as a whole, rather than just one area specifically, a more effective form of treatment can be administered. If you’re ready to put an end to your heartburn, be sure to book an appointment with us today!