Nightburn is a disorder that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Normally, stomach acid remains in the stomach and is used to digest food. But sometimes, stomach acid can escape into the esophagus and irritate this area. In this case, the person may experience a burning sensation, pain and discomfort.
Factors that cause night burn
There are many factors that cause night burn. Some of them are:
1. Nutritional habits: Some foods such as fatty and spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and acidic drinks can cause night burns. These types of foods can increase the production of stomach acid and cause it to leak into the esophagus.
2. Excess weight: Being overweight can increase the risk of stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Therefore, weight control is important and effective in protecting against night burn.
3. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, changes in hormone levels can increase the risk of stomach acid leaking into the esophagus. Therefore, there is a higher chance of experiencing night burns during pregnancy.
Symptoms of night burn
Symptoms of night burn may include:
4. Burning sensation: The burning sensation caused by stomach acid irritating the esophagus is the most common symptom. This burning sensation is usually felt in the chest area and often increases after eating or when lying down.
5. Indigestion: Stomach acid leaking back into the esophagus can cause indigestion and digestive problems.
6. Pain: Night burn usually causes pain in the chest area. This pain can sometimes be confused with a heart attack, so it's important to be careful.
Natural methods to relieve night burn
There are many natural methods to relieve and control night burn. Here are some of them:
7. Apple cider vinegar: Mixing a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drinking it before a meal can relieve night burn. Apple cider vinegar can reduce the burning sensation by neutralizing stomach acid.
8. Aloe vera juice: Aloe vera juice can help balance stomach acid and soothe the stomach. Drinking a tablespoon of aloe vera juice before a meal can relieve night burn.
9. Fennel seeds: You can cure night burns by chewing fennel seeds or consuming them in the form of tea. Fennel seeds facilitate digestion and reduce stomach acid.
Lifestyle changes to prevent night burn
You can make some lifestyle changes to prevent night burn. Here are some of them:
10. Regulate your eating habits: Eating quickly, consuming large portions, and eating right before bed can cause night burns. Eat your meals slowly, keep your portions under control, and stop eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
11. Elevate your head before going to bed at night: Elevating your head before going to bed can reduce the risk of stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. For this, you can raise your pillow or the head of your bed.
12. Exercise: Regular exercise helps control weight and regulates the digestive system. This may reduce the risk of night burns.
Dietary recommendations for managing night burn
You can make some changes to your diet to manage night burn. Here are some of them:
13. Avoid acidic foods: Acidic foods like lemons, oranges, tomatoes and citrus fruits can cause night burns. Limit these foods as much as possible or avoid them altogether.
14. Stay away from spicy foods: Spicy foods can increase stomach acid and cause night burns. Therefore, avoid or reduce the consumption of spicy foods.
15. Limit alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can increase stomach acid and increase the risk of night burns. Therefore, limit alcohol and caffeine consumption or avoid it altogether if possible.
Over-the-counter medications used for night burn
Many over-the-counter medications are available to relieve night burn. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using these medications. Here are some over-the-counter medications used for night burn:
16. Antacids: Antacids can relieve night burn by neutralizing stomach acid. Antacids such as sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and magnesium hydroxide are available.
17. H2 blockers: H2 blockers can reduce the production of stomach acid and control night burn. H2 blockers such as ranitidine and famotidine are available without a prescription.
18. Proton pump inhibitors: Proton pump inhibitors can prevent the production of stomach acid and relieve night burn. Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole and lansoprazole can be purchased without a prescription.
When should you seek medical help?
Night burn is usually harmless and can be relieved with home treatments. However, in some cases medical assistance may be required. It is important to consult your doctor if:
19. If night burn symptoms occur regularly and negatively affect your quality of life.
20. Night burn symptom