Why Me? Five Surprising Things That Cause Heartburn

You guys, I have pretty regular heartburn.  It's something I take a pill for every day.  And Husbando has it, too.  So as I was sitting here suffering from it, I thought I'd do a little research on whatever the heck this is and what's causing it. 

A few things that cause heartburn might surprise you.  Here are five of them.

#1.)  Smoking.  It reduces saliva, weakens the valve between your stomach and your esophagus, and causes bile salts to migrate up from your small intestine.  And all three of those things cause heartburn.

#2.)  Pills.  Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory drugs can trigger heartburn if you use them too often.  And so can some prescription drugs, including antibiotics, high blood pressure meds, osteoporosis drugs, sedatives, and asthma medications.  So I might be getting some of it from my Avonex that I take for my MS.  Husbando might get his from his blood pressure medicine after all.

#3.)  Fish Oil Supplements.  A lot of doctors suggest them as a natural way to fight heart disease and depression.  But the oil can also cause heartburn in some people.  But, I don't take that so I guess that's out.

#4.)  Being Overweight.  Researchers aren't sure why, but according to a study done in 2003, acid reflux symptoms increase when your body-mass goes up.  Especially for young women.  This one might be a factor for me, as well. I know I need to get in better shape.

#5.)  Genetics.  Studies have shown that 30 to 45% of your risk for having chronic heartburn comes from your parents.  Sadly, you can't do anything about that.

But you CAN quit smoking, stop taking so many painkillers, and try to lose a few pounds. So I guess I better pick one and get started, huh?

Heartburnily yours,
Behka