Why heartburn gets worse with age

2025-06-08 10:45:00, Shëndeti CNA

Heartburn, a common condition characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat due to acid reflux, affects millions of people worldwide. As the population ages, it becomes increasingly common, with certain age-related factors contributing to its progression.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid travels up into the esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. As we age, several physiological and lifestyle factors contribute to worsening heartburn symptoms. Gastroenterologists say there are three main reasons for this, HuffPost Life reports.

• Muscle weakness.

The lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, plays a critical role in preventing the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. With age, this muscle can weaken, leading to increased susceptibility to acid reflux. Factors such as prolonged physical exertion, obesity, and dietary habits exacerbate this weakening.

Aging can also impair esophageal motility, the coordinated muscle movement that helps transport food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Reduced motility slows the clearance of stomach acid from the esophagus, prolonging exposure and worsening heartburn symptoms.

• Medications.

Older adults are more likely to take medications that can worsen heartburn, including blood pressure medications, such as nitrates and calcium channel blockers. Medications for erectile dysfunction and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also increase the risk of heartburn.

• Weight gain.

Age can also bring changes in dietary preferences and lifestyle habits, such as reduced physical activity and eating large meals, which can cause weight gain and increase the risk of heartburn. Research shows that both men and women gain an average of one pound to one pound each year, HuffPost Life reports. Popular weight-loss drugs called GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, have been linked to reflux because they delay stomach emptying.

How to prevent and manage heartburn

While heartburn can worsen with age, it is not inevitable. There are effective strategies to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Pay attention to foods that seem to trigger heartburn. Foods such as citrus fruits, fatty meals, caffeine, and alcohol are common triggers, and older adults may be more susceptible to them due to a slower metabolism.

Eating smaller meals and maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce episodes of heartburn. Including high-fiber foods and staying hydrated are essential for digestive health. Seniors should consult with their healthcare providers to review their medications and identify those that may be contributing to heartburn. Alternatives or adjustments may be recommended.

Experts say you should eat your last meal at least two hours before bed. When you go to bed, elevate your upper body by up to 30 degrees using a wedge or pillow, suggests Dr. Ali Kazemi, a gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Virginia. If these lifestyle measures don't work, talk to your doctor about medications to relieve heartburn./ CNA