For many individuals, chest pain after eating is a cause for concern. After all, chest pain is almost always associated with heart diseases and heart attacks. Thus, you start thinking that the fatty, greasy and oily diet you have been on for the past few months have finally taken their toll on your heart. Well, you are right and wrong on many respects. On one hand, your poor diet choices may have lead to your heart finally succumbing to the build-up of fats and cholesterols in your body. On the other hand, you may only be suffering from chest pains brought by acid reflux. Causes of Chest Pain after a meal There are many causes of chest pain, which can range from cardiac causes like heart attacks to emotional causes like panic attacks. So before you even act on treatment for chest pains, you must know of their underlying causes lest you worsen the condition. For chest pain after food eating, however, you can pinpoint four basic digestive causes. Keep in mind that you must consult with your doctor first to determine which of the four causes is applicable in your case. * Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)- This is the most common cause of chest pain after meals. Usually, the acid from the stomach is carried back into the esophagus that, in turn, causes heartburn. You will feel a burning pain behind the breastbone if GERD is the main cause of your condition. * Esophageal Spasm - You may also suffer from esophageal disorders that make swallowing difficult. In this case, your digestive muscles especially in the esophagus are uncoordinated and painful muscle spasms are experienced in the chest area. * Hiatal Hernia - In this disorder, part of your stomach pushes up into the diaphragm, causing chest pressure and pain. This is especially true after eating. Heartburn is a common symptom of this type of hernia. * Gallbladder and/or Pancreas Problems - Inflammations of the gallbladder and/or pancreas can lead to acute abdominal pain radiating to your chest. Chest pain after eating can be cured starting with treatment for its underlying causes. The important thing is that your doctor has correctly identified it and proceeded to adopt the appropriate treatment protocol. Remedies of Chest Pain after Eating The proper remedy for chest pain after meals will depend on the treatment applied for its underlying cause. First and foremost, you must adopt a healthy diet and proper eating habits. With GERD, it is important to avoid the foods that trigger your heartburn. Depending on your case, said triggers may include fatty and fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, garlic, onions, mint, citrus juices and tomato products. Second, you should drink plenty of water, eat your meals regularly, take a short walk after eating and even avoid tight-fitting clothing will significantly help. And of course, stop smoking. Chest pain after eating is cause for concern simply because it is a wake-up call for you to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. At the very least, you will be more aware of your body and, hopefully, take better care of it.
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