Ask the HCQU

Is there a burning question you just have to find the answer to? How do I request a training from the HCQU? What kind of trainings does the HCQU offer? Just what is a HCQU, anyway? Or, perhaps you would like to know more about a medication you are taking, or you have always wondered just what is the proper way to floss my teeth? Maybe you attended one of our trainings, and thought of a good question you should have asked, but you were half way home when you thought of it. If there is anything of a medical or behavioral nature that you would like to ask our trainers, this is the place to do it.

If you have a question to ask, please email it to Lynn and she will forward it to the correct trainer. Questions and answers (only - no names or other information) will be posted right back here as we get them.

Question:

Answer:

What is the difference between heartburn and GERD?

Heartburn is a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Heartburn is the pain caused by the acid regurgitating or splashing up into the esophagus and irritating the lining of the esophagus. If left untreated, chronic heartburn can scar the lining of the esophagus, resulting in strictures (narrowing) of the esophagus, increased risk of esophageal cancer, and aspiration pneumonia.

GERD is when the pyloric valve (the valve between the esophagus and the stomach) doesn't close properly, causing stomach acid to splash back up into the esophagus. GERD can be treated by use of medications, such as:

  • Tums or Rolaids (these neutralize the stomach acid)
  • Zantac, Tagamet (these reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach)
  • Prilosec, Protonix, Acifix (these are proton pump inhibitors, which stop the acid production in the stomach)

Some of these are over-the-counter medications, which don't need a physician's prescription; however, you should discuss your symptoms with your doctor before taking any medication.

There are certain lifestyle changes that can help heartburn/GERD:

  • Remain upright for at least one hour following a meal
  • Limit food within three hours of bedtime
  • Avoid high fat foods, spicy foods, or foods that routinely cause you to have heartburn
  • Learn to manage stress
  • If obesity is a problem, losing weight can help
  • Eat small, frequent meals
  • Elevate the head of the bed six inches

© 2006 Northwest Health Connections, a division of Allegheny East MH/MR Center, Inc. All rights reserved.