Heartburn/Digestion Question.Help Needed

[Chris__0__0]

  Hi. I've been having heartburn for a long period of time (since 15,im 21 now), lately however it seems to be worse. It happens after most meals. I take zantac and that helps it out a lot. When I do get the heartburn I feel a burning below my adams apple but above breastbone. about 1/2way. any ideas???
  Second question. is it normal for things like popy seeds,sesame seeds, peppers and peanuts to come out whole in feces wit almost no digestion seemingly taking place or is this abnormal. Please respond/
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Dear Chris,
Your symptoms are very suggestive of reflux.  the mainstay of therapy is lifestyle modification.  You should implement the following changes to reduce the liklihood of requiring ongoing medical therapy:
1) eat 3 meals; no snacks
2) do not lie down for 4 hrs after eating
3) stop smoking
4) do not drink alcohol
5) avoid coffee, tea, chocolates, peppermints, fatty foods and any foods that produce symptoms
6) chew gum, suck cndies during the day to increase salivation
7) try antacids for your symptoms.
With regard to your second question, the seeds that you describe are not digestible and may appear intact in the feces.
This information is presented for educational purposes.  Ask specific questions to your personal physician.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: esophageal reflux
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