Heartburn Under 30:
No Appointment Necessary
Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, January 14 and February 25
Show 402
It's normally associated with overeating, pregnancy or middle age. But heartburn is surprisingly common among people age 30 and under. Health Corner co-host Dr. Lisa Thornton talks with Walgreens pharmacist Eric Jachthuber, PharmD, about ways to prevent and treat heartburn.
Eric Jachthuber, PharmD:
Heartburn affects millions of Americans every year. Symptoms occur when acid moves from its natural place in the stomach up into the esophagus causing a burning sensation.
Dr. Lisa:
That's right. And there are a lot of reasons someone under 30 might get heartburn. Some medications cause it, eating a very large meal, genetics, a hiatal hernia.
Eric Jachthuber, PharmD:
That's right. It's always wise to talk to your doctor about it. Now for the occasional case of heartburn, over-the-counter medications will likely provide relief, but for people who get heartburn two or three times a week, that's another story.
Dr. Lisa:
Yes, and a lot of people don't realize they could actually have something much more serious, GERD which means gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Eric Jachthuber, PharmD:
Certainly and left untreated, that can eventually lead to cancer of the esophagus. Heartburn more than twice a week is something to be very concerned about.
Dr. Lisa:
It certainly is. And you should see your doctor if that happens.