Heartburn

What are the symptoms associated with heart burn in pregnancy?
  • Burning sensation in the chest going up to the neck.
  • Hot, sour or acidy taste in the mouth.
What causes heart burn in pregnancy?
  • The hormone progesterone during pregnancy causes relaxation of the sphincter in between the stomach and the food pipe (esophagus) causing reflux of stomach acid up into the esophagus
  • Sluggish stomach and intestinal movements.
  • The growing baby and uterus exerts upward pressure onto the stomach and intestines.
Does heart burn become more common in pregnancy?
Yes, up to two-thirds of women experiences heart burn during pregnancy especially during third trimester due to the growing uterus putting pressure onto the stomach. In some women, they experience heart burn for the first time during pregnancy. Do not worry, heart burn is relatively a common symptom and you could do several things to help you relieve those symptoms associated with heart burn.
What could I do if I have heart burn during pregnancy?
  • Eat small and frequent meals.
  • Avoid foods that could worsen the heart burn such as caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, minty food, citrus fruit or juices. You should also avoid spicy, greasy or oily food. In addition, take note of any other food that exacerbates heart burn.
  • Wait at least two hours before lying down flat after eating.
  • If you tend to get heart burn at night before sleeping try propping up your head with a few pillows.
Are there any medications that I could take if I have heart burn during pregnancy?
You should consult your doctor before taking any over the counter medications or other medications for your heart burn.
  • Antacid. An example of antacid which are safe in pregnancy is Gelusil.
  • If simple over the counter medication does not relieve your symptoms your doctor may prescribe you with medication that suppresses production of stomach acid such as ranitidine.
Do take your medications according to the dose as prescribed by your doctor as there could be unwanted side effects if overdosed.

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