’Tis the season to be jolly battle against an onslaught of stomach acid, the NHS say.
NHS Digital revealed that “There are around 13,200 visits to the page on heartburn and acid reflux on the NHS website over Christmas Day and Boxing Day. That’s one view every 13 seconds!”
The burning sensation, which can be caused by fatty, sugary, or salty foods (so, my entire Christmas diet), is common and often harmless, their site entry reads.
But occasionally, it can be caused by something more serious ― like a stomach ulcer, hernia, or bacterial infection.
The odd spot of heartburn, especially around the festive season, isn’t often a cause of concern.
But the NHS says that how often you have heartburn, how persistent it is, and whether you have any other symptoms can help you to tell a one-off issue from something you should see your GP about.
Per the health service, you should see a doctor if:
Of course, the chest pain which is sometimes associated with heartburn can have a more serious source.
The NHS says you should call 999 or go to the A&E if you notice:
These could be signs of a heart attack.
Even if you’re not worried about your acid reflux, you may still want relief from the pain.
Taking over-the-counter medications, not eating for 2-3 hours before bedtime, avoiding fatty, sugary, or salty foods, having smaller, more frequent meals, and steering clear of tight-fitting clothes can all help.
And if the issue gets worse at night, sleeping on your left side can help to reduce your risk of early-morning burning.
