HomeAnswersSurgical GastroenterologyheartburnWhy does my heartburn worsen when I sit upright?

Why does my heartburn go away when I lay down in the bed and increases when I sit upright?

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Published At October 18, 2014
Reviewed AtFebruary 6, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi,

Why does my heartburn go away when I lay down in the bed and increases when I sit upright? This seems to contradict the advice of raising the head while sleeping.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

  • The cause for heartburn is due to the acid from the stomach entering into the esophagus through the lower esophageal sphincter.
  • Other than swallowing times this sphincter is closed and prevents the acid from entering the esophagus. 
  • For people whose sphincter tone is lost certain drugs and postural change will help in relieving the symptoms.
  • For this only we advice head end elevation while sleeping.
  • Apart from this negative pressure of respiration and type of physical work also affects the reflux disease.
  • For further clarification 24 hour ph study and manometry will help in guiding further management.

Consult a surgical gatroenterologist online for further queries --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/surgical-gastroenterologist

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Madhan Kumar Madathupalayam Velusamy
Dr. Madhan Kumar Madathupalayam Velusamy

Surgical Gastroenterology

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