Can heartburn the day after drinking alcohol resolve on its own?
Nov 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, heartburn the day after drinking alcohol is mild and can resolve on its own if symptoms are not severe; however, severe cases may not resolve spontaneously. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. The specific analysis is as follows: Heartburn is mainly caused by excessive gastric acid secretion or gastroesophageal reflux of stomach acid. It often results from eating too quickly or excessively, binge eating, consuming irritating foods, especially alcohol.
In general, heartburn the day after drinking alcohol may resolve on its own if mild, but may not resolve if severe. Patients are advised to follow medical advice for symptomatic treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Self-resolving cases
Heartburn is mainly caused by excessive gastric acid secretion or gastric acid reflux into the esophagus. Eating too quickly or excessively, binge eating, or consuming irritating foods—especially alcohol—can lead to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter or increased gastric acid secretion, resulting in heartburn. In mild cases, symptoms typically resolve spontaneously without the need for medication.
2. Non-self-resolving cases
If heartburn occurs the day after drinking, accompanied by acid regurgitation and retrosternal pain, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should be considered. Heartburn caused by GERD requires treatment, which may include surgery as directed by a physician. Patients may also take medications such as domperidone tablets or omeprazole enteric-coated capsules as prescribed.
If patients experience discomfort symptoms, it is recommended they seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.
