Heartburn, dyspepsia, peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease: understanding and managing these conditions
As a family physician and medical director of French origin who completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec, I frequently see patients suffering from digestive disorders. Heartburn, dyspepsia, peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are the most common of these conditions. Understanding these conditions and knowing how to manage them can greatly improve patients' quality of life.
Heartburn
What is it?
Heartburn is characterized by a burning sensation in the epigastric (upper abdomen) and retrosternal areas. This sensation is caused by gastric acid rising in the esophagus.
Common causes
- Spicy or fatty food
- Excessive consumption of coffee, alcohol or chocolate
- Smoking
- Stress and anxiety
Prevention and treatment
- Avoiding trigger foods
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid going to bed immediately after eating
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Dyspepsia
What is it?
Dyspepsia is a digestive disorder characterized by chronic pain and discomfort centered on the stomach area, or epigastrium. It is characterized by a feeling of "not being able to digest properly".
Dyspepsia combines one or more of the following symptoms:
- An uncomfortable feeling of fullness in the stomach after a meal, known as "postprandial distress syndrome".
- Early satiety or a feeling of being full quickly, with inability to finish a normal-sized meal
- Pain or burning in the pit of the stomach (epigastric heartburn)
Common causes
- Fast food or large quantities
- Stress
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Prevention and treatment
- Eat slowly and avoid overeating
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques
- Consult a physician to adjust medication if necessary
Peptic ulcers
What is it?
Peptic ulcers are open lesions that form on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. They can cause severe abdominal pain.
Common causes
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Prolonged use of NSAIDs
- Stress and spicy foods (can aggravate symptoms)
Prevention and treatment
- Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection with antibiotics
- Reduction or discontinuation of NSAIDs
- Medicines to reduce gastric acidity
- Modifying diet to avoid irritants
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
What is it?
GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid frequently backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and acid regurgitation.
Common causes
- Lower esophageal sphincter weakness
- High-fat diet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
Prevention and treatment
- Weight loss if necessary
- Avoid fatty and spicy foods
- Do not go to bed immediately after eating
- Medications such as antacids, PPIs or H2 blockers
- Surgery in severe cases
When should you see a doctor?
If you regularly suffer from heartburn, dyspepsia, ulcers or GERD, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Don't overlook persistent symptoms, as they may indicate more serious health problems.
To book an appointment or obtain personalized medical advice, please visit our Allodocteur.ca platform, where we offer private in-home medical consultations and telemedicine.
Conclusion
Digestive disorders such as heartburn, dyspepsia, peptic ulcers and GERD can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily life. By understanding their causes and adopting preventive measures, you can manage them effectively. Don't forget to consult a healthcare professional for treatment tailored to your specific needs.
