SPONSORED: Heartburn and menopause – Are they connected?
Women observe many changes in their bodies during menopause. Some experience hot flushes or mood swings. Others have dry and itchy skin or muscle aches. These changes are due to the lower levels of hormones like oestrogen and progesterone in the body.
A 2008 study on 497 women also found that 42% of perimenopausal women and 47% of menopausal women suffered from heartburn. For women experiencing heartburn more frequently later in life, it’s possible this is linked to shifting oestrogen levels which can affect how much acid the stomach produces. Hormonal changes may also lead to weight gain which can increase a person’s risk for acid reflux. Anxiety and stress, common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, may also cause the body to produce more cortisol, a hormone that affects digestion.
What can you do?
There are lifestyle and dietary changes that can help you manage the symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
Scientists are still studying the possible links between hormones, menopause and heartburn. In the meantime, you don’t have to suffer from heartburn or indigestion. Being more mindful about what you eat is a great place to start. Food that’s rich in fibre like wholegrains, vegetables and lean meats can help your digestive system work better. Try to avoid fatty and spicy foods as well as caffeine and alcohol which can trigger or worsen your symptoms. How you eat also plays a part. Take your time eating and chew your food well. Go for smaller, more frequent meals and give yourself at least three hours to digest before going to sleep at night.
If heartburn is disrupting your sleep, try a more upright position. Elevate your head and chest above the level of your waist to keep stomach acid from travelling up your body. Regular exercise can also help you lose excess weight, manage stress and boost your mood. If your symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, talk to your pharmacist or GP about over the counter remedies. Don’t let menopause or heartburn stop you from enjoying your golden years. Your body may be changing but if you take good care of it, this chapter can be the beginning of the very best years of your
life!
Acid reflux and heartburn
Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest, usually below the breastbone. It’s caused by acid reflux or stomach acid travelling up towards the throat. This happens when the muscular ring joining the stomach and the oesophagus fails. As a result, you may have a sour taste in your mouth or have bad breath. Other symptoms include frequent hiccups or cough as well as feeling bloated or sick.
Pyrocalm Control can provide effective relief from heartburn and acid reflux
Pyrocalm is a temporary treatment of heartburn and should be used on a short-term basis to relieve the burning sensation. The recommended Pyrocalm dose is 20 mg once daily for up to 14 days. It might be necessary to take the tablets for 2-3 consecutive days to achieve improvement of symptoms. The majority of patients achieve complete relief of heartburn within seven days.
Once complete relief of symptoms has occurred, treatment should be discontinued. If the problem persists, please consult your GP for further treatment and advice. Pyrocalm Control 20mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets. Available in packs of 7 and 14. For the short-term treatment of reflux symptoms in adults. Contains 20mg Omeprazole. Always read the label.
