Many types of meals are considered trigger foods if it stimulates heartburn or allergies. Certain foods are difficult for seniors to digest or swallow which may lead to heartburn. For instance, coffee or chocolate can be hard for some seniors to easily digest and they should consult a nutritionist to check the underlying trigger foods. Here is a list of some foods which may cause heartburn among seniors:

·         Tomatoes

·         Alcohol

·         Tea

·         Hot chocolate

·         Extra stress

·         Obesity

These types of foods are a few common cause of heartburn among seniors. However, here are some basic reasons shared by a Livingston home care provider which might put seniors at risk of heartburn.

Nighttime

Seniors might experience severe heartburn during nighttime because the stomach acid and food eaten remains in the esophagus while you are on your back or sleeping. Nutrition experts suggest older adults can sleep on their side if they often experience heartburn, especially at night. Sleeping on the side can help seniors mitigate the negative effects of heartburn.

Stress and Anxiety

Feeling stressful at times can make seniors at risk of many physical problems such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, or heartburn. However, extreme levels of stress cannot cause stress. It might lead to the factors triggering heartburn or related issues. For instance, seniors might have a binge eating disorder which can put them at risk of heartburn and disrupt the bowel movements.

Alcohol

Substance abuse can have several harmful effects on the physical health of seniors. Seniors can become addicted to alcohol at an older age which can cause heartburn or cardiovascular problems. According to a recent study, seniors who have a history of drinking alcohol can become prone to heart-related problems and enhance their risk of heart attacks.

Smoking

Research show seniors who are heavy smokers can have gastrointestinal problems which can lead to indigestion. Excessive smoking among seniors can cause heartburn because of the noxious elements present in cigarettes. Many drastic effects of smoking can be disastrous for seniors, especially if they are on the verge of cognitive decline.

Health Conditions That Put Pressure on the Stomach

Obesity

Over 30% aging adults in the US are considered clinically obese or overweight. Seniors who are obese might experience heartburn because of the excess weight on their chest or lack of mobility after having a meal. Obesity may not only cause heartburn, but make you prone to other health risks such as cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, or asthma.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women might complain about heartburn when they are five months into their pregnancy. It is better to consult a doctor if pregnant women feel extreme levels of pain to learn the underlying cause of it. Relying on over-the-counter medications might not be enough for pregnant women to feel better and avoid heartburn.

Heartburn can be devastating if not controlled among seniors and they can become at risk of other health risks. If your loved one needs home care, Livingston care providers who offer respite caregivers can be or great assistance.