For many women, heartburn symptoms occur frequently during pregnancy which can add to the discomfort of an already awkward period in their life. While it is unlikely that this can be cured completely, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the acid build up that causes indigestion and go some way to bring much needed relief from its symptoms.
Causes of Heartburn Symptoms
Repeated bouts of chest pain coupled with a sour, acidic taste and pain in the throat can be caused by GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease) which is mucosal damage from an abnormal reflux of acid in the stomach to the esophagus.
Heartburn in pregnancy can also be a result of increased levels of hormones loosening the ligaments that are usually responsible for keeping the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tightly shut. This makes the LES relax at the wrong time, causing acid to make its way to the throat and causing chest pain as it does so.
Another reason for heartburn in pregnancy is the pressure put on the stomach as the body adapts to the baby growing inside it. This can make the acid rise up the body causing considerable discomfort as it makes its way up the body to the esophagus.
Treating and Preventing Heartburn
Whether caused by GERD, hormones or other reasons there are a number of ways to treat heartburn and while it will probably not be eradicated completely, its effects can be kept to a minimum. One of the key factors to avoiding heartburn is diet.
It is better to eat several small meals rather than two or three large ones, meals should also be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly and no food should be ingested within three hours before going to bed. This will help the digestive system do its job and go some way to preventing acid indigestion.
Some foods should be avoided altogether as they act as triggers for heartburn symptoms, they include;
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Tomatoes and tomato-based products
• Fried food
• Fatty food
Plenty of fluid, especially water should be consumed throughout the day but certain drinks should be avoided as they can relax the LES and cause acid reflux into the esophagus. They include;
• Coffee
• Tea
• Cola and other caffeine based soft drinks
• Alcohol
• Sports and energy drinks
Another way to get relief from heartburn is to sleep with your head and shoulders raised around 6 – 8 inches above the rest of the body, naturally allowing the stomach acids from rising up towards the throat. A good posture during waking hours can have a similar effect so it is advisable to sit or stand upright with the shoulders back, head raised and an erect back.
There are many over the counter treatments available for heartburn symptoms that will provide temporary relief and ease the suffering considerable. However, as with all medicines taken when pregnant, a doctor should always be consulted before use and instructions and dosage guidelines should be followed to the letter.