Between holiday dinners, cookie swaps, and office parties, this season can be hard on your digestive system. Heartburn often disrupts the holiday fun, but you don’t have to let it. With the right strategies, you can enjoy your favorite foods while keeping reflux in check.
In this article, Dr. Jay Yepuri explains when to see a doctor for heartburn and provides 10 tips to prevent holiday heartburn.
When to See a Doctor for Recurring Heartburn
Occasional heartburn is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist. You should schedule an appointment if you:
- Experience heartburn more than twice per week
- Have symptoms that continue despite over-the-counter medications
- Notice difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck, or unexplained chest discomfort
- Experience chronic cough, throat irritation, or voice hoarseness
- Develop nausea, vomiting, or unintentional weight loss
- Wake up at night because of burning or regurgitation
Recurring heartburn could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or another gastrointestinal problem that requires medical care. A GI specialist can determine the cause, rule out complications, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you recover.
Learn more: Understanding GERD Symptoms
10 Tips to Avoid Holiday Heartburn
- Eat Smaller Portions and Slow Down 🍽️
Big holiday meals can strain your stomach and raise the risk of reflux. Try eating smaller portions, taking your time with each bite, and spreading out courses to ease digestion. - Be Mindful of Common Trigger Foods 🌶️
Holiday favorites like chocolate, peppermint, tomato-based dishes, citrus, spicy foods, and fried items often trigger reflux. Enjoy them in moderation and balance rich foods with lighter options. - Limit Alcohol and Carbonated Drinks 🍷🥂
Alcoholic beverages and fizzy drinks can relax the muscle that prevents stomach acid from rising. Alternate alcohol with water, choose non-carbonated mixers, or set drink limits to better manage symptoms. - Stay Upright After Eating 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Avoid lying down for at least 2–3 hours after a meal. If holiday dinners tend to run late, consider eating earlier to prevent bedtime reflux. - Take a Gentle Walk After Meals 🚶♂️🚶♀️
Taking a quick 10 to 15-minute walk can help digestion and reduce bloating, two common triggers for heartburn. This simple habit is especially helpful after large meals. - Choose Clothing That Doesn’t Constrict Your Stomach 👖
Tight clothing increases pressure on the abdomen and can force stomach acid upward. Opt for comfortable, relaxed-fit clothing during meals and gatherings. - Use Over-the-Counter Medications Wisely 💊
Antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs can provide short-term relief. However, frequent use indicates a need for a medical evaluation to identify underlying issues and avoid long-term complications. - Drink Plenty of Water Throughout the Day 💧
Staying hydrated helps dilute stomach acid, supports digestion, and prevents overeating. Water also counteracts the effects of salty snacks, sweets, and alcohol common during holiday gatherings. - Elevate Your Head and Chest at Night 🛏️
Nighttime reflux can be minimized by elevating your upper body 6–8 inches using a wedge pillow or adjustable bed. Gravity helps keep acid in its proper place. - Reduce Stress and Prioritize Sleep 😴
Holiday stress and irregular sleep patterns can worsen heartburn symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques, take breaks when needed, and work toward maintaining a consistent sleep routine.
When to See a Heartburn Specialist
If heartburn is becoming a frequent concern, you don’t have to handle it alone. As a trusted DFW heartburn specialist, Dr. Jay Yepuri provides expert evaluation and tailored treatment plans to help you find long-lasting relief.
Scheduling an appointment can help you better understand your symptoms, safeguard your long-term digestive health, and prevent more serious conditions from developing. Take the next step toward comfortable, healthy holidays—schedule an appointment online or call 817-267-8470 today.
