Two signs that indicate you could have a more serious problem than heartburn alone and that requires medical attention from a healthcare professional include experiencing heartburn two or more times per week and having difficulty swallowing even when heartburn isn’t present. This difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is due to acid irritation that has caused the esophagus to become inflamed. If either of these apply to you, it is time to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Additionally, if you experience two or more of the following signs or symptoms, you should consider seeing your doctor: 

– Sour taste in the back of your throat
– Sore throat that won’t go away
– Dry cough without other cold symptoms
– Regurgitating small amounts of semi-digested food
– Burning in the back of your throat as you wake up
– Feeling like there’s always a lump in your throat
– Taking antacids two or more times a week or for longer than two weeks
– You are overweight or obese
– You smoke
– You’ve been diagnosed with gastroperesis, scleroderma or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
– Worsening asthma symptoms

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, your heartburn may be the cause of an underlying condition:

– Difficulty swallowing
– Difficulty breathing
– Consistent coughing
– Vomiting
– Stomach pain
– Recurring heartburn
– Chest pressure

The best medications for heartburn include antacids and histamine H2 antagonists. Used to bind excess acid in the stomach and to coat the esophagus, antacids may be taken after meals, at bedtime, or when needed. Histamine H2 antagonists are medications that block the action of chemicals that stimulates stomach cells to produce acid known as histamines. These work on the acid-producing cells of the stomach to decrease acid production and to potentially decrease symptoms.

As with all common ailments, you should start with your primary care doctor for heartburn treatment. Your doctor may suggest you see a gastroenterologist if necessary. Gastroenterologists specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the digestive tract. Don’t ignore persistent heartburn episodes. If you believe you could benefit from meeting with a gastroenterologist, consult your doctor to find out if you need an appointment. Additionally, you can consult the professionals at Vanguard Gastroenterology for your concerns about heartburn.

If symptoms are persistent, you should see a doctor for acid reflux, particularly if you experience unintended weight loss and problems with swallowing. Unfortunately, acid reflux can lead to stomach and esophageal ulcers and strictures. For a physical exam and review of your symptoms and medical prescription history, consult with one of the GI doctors at Vanguard Gastroenterology today.

If you or someone you know is experiencing heartburn, come to Vanguard Gastroenterology for treatment today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced in treating heartburn and can help you find relief from your symptoms. For more information on our heartburn treatment and how it can benefit you, call our office and get in touch with a member of our specialist team. To book an appointment with our heartburn doctor, visit our website or speak with us over the phone today. We serve patients from New York NY, Queens NY, Brooklyn NY, The Bronx NY, East Elmhurst NY, Ridgewood NY, Valley Stream NY and Staten Island NY.