A common ailment for many, heartburn is shrouded in misconceptions.
It's crucial to understand the facts and educate patients effectively. Here's a breakdown of some prevalent myths and the corresponding truths:
Myth 1: Heartburn always means heart trouble
Fact: Heartburn, medically known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus. This burning sensation in the chest is unrelated to the heart. While severe heartburn can mimic a heart attack, it is usually benign and does not signify cardiac issues.
Myth 2: Milk soothes the burn
Fact: While milk may provide temporary relief, the lactose content can actually worsen symptoms in some individuals. Long-term, milk may increase stomach acid production.
Myth 3: Spicy food is the main culprit
Fact: Spicy food can indeed trigger heartburn, but it's not the only culprit. Fatty or acidic foods, alcohol, caffeine, and even chocolate can be triggers.
Myth 4: Heartburn is no big deal
Fact: Occasional heartburn is normal, however, frequent episodes (twice a week or more) can indicate GORD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and require medical attention.
Myth 5: Antacids are the only treatment for heartburn
Fact: While antacids provide quick relief by neutralising stomach acid, they are not a long-term solution. Educate patients about lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, weight management, and elevation of the head during sleep, to reduce heartburn frequency and severity. Additionally, pharmacological options like H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can offer sustained relief by decreasing acid production.
Myth 6: Chronic heartburn is harmless and can be ignored.
Fact: Frequent or severe heartburn may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a condition that can lead to complications like oesophagitis, Barrett's oesophagus, and even oesophageal cancer if left untreated. Advise patients experiencing persistent heartburn to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and management.
Empowering pharmacists for better patient care
By understanding these myths, pharmacists can effectively:
- Counsel patients on identifying triggers and appropriate lifestyle changes (weight management, smaller meals, avoiding tight clothing).
- Recommend OTC medications while explaining their limitations and potential side effects.
- Advise patients to seek medical attention for frequent or severe heartburn, which could indicate GORD or other underlying conditions.
By debunking misconceptions and providing evidence-based guidance, you can empower patients to manage heartburn effectively through lifestyle modifications, appropriate medication use, and timely medical intervention when needed. Effective counselling can improve patient outcomes and quality of life for those suffering from heartburn.
