Is Heartburn Bad?

Many people have experienced some degree of heartburn throughout their lives. In the majority of cases, heartburn can be treated by changing lifestyle habits or with over-the-counter medications that can be taken at home. With that being said, heartburn is very common and is generally not serious. However, if you experience heartburn more frequently or have extreme heartburn, then it is best to reach out to an experienced gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks that can determine the underlying cause of your condition and provide you with effective treatment and guidance. 

In some severe cases, heartburn may be a sign of a condition known as GERD, otherwise known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you are experiencing severe or frequent heartburn, then it is in your best interest to seek medical treatment from a reputable Thousand Oaks gastroenterologist. This is important because GERD can lead to a number of other conditions, such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and in extreme cases, even cancer. 

Sometimes, a gastroenterologist may want to perform an endoscopy to examine the digestive tract for any underlying conditions. This is done with a flexible instrument that has a light at the tip to get a better view of the digestive tract. Certain over-the-counter medications to treat heartburn generally include antacids or acid blockers. However, if you do not experience any relief from over-the-counter medications, then speak to your gastroenterologist to determine if prescription medications are right for you.

Ultimately, though, it is always best to get to the underlying cause of your heartburn symptoms and determine the next steps from there. If you are looking for a heartburn specialist in Thousand Oaks, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Can Heartburn Be Prevented?

Yes, heartburn can be managed or prevented by making changes to your lifestyle and diet. Here are some examples:

• Have last meal at least three to four hours before bed
• Stop overeating 
• Eat slowly 
• Avoid foods that trigger heartburn 
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid smoking 
• Wait at least two hours after eating before exercising

Contact a Gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a highly experienced gastroenterologist, we are here to help. With years of experience providing patients with effective heartburn treatment in Thousand Oaks, you can count on our team every step of the way.

‍