Drs: Symptoms Mimicking Heartburn + Sore Throat Remedies

The Drs: Health Problems That Feel Like Heartburn

The Doctors “Too Hot For TV Segment” kicked off with an explanation of symptoms that can mimic heartburn and what you can do to tell the difference. Dr Drew Ordon said to think about heart disease, because if you experience chest pain or burning in your chest during exercise or moderate activity, you should pay close attention. If you’re over 50 and you have a family history of heart disease, don’t just chalk it up to heartburn, but instead go see a doctor and get it checked out.

The Drs: Heartburn Or Gallbladder?

Next, Dr Jennifer Ashton said right under the diaphragm is your gallbladder and you can experience inflammation or even gallstones. It can happen right after a meal and is common in women over 40 who have had children. If you experience pain in your right upper quadrant, talk to a doctor, because it could be gallstones rather than heartburn.

Finally, Dr Rachael Ross said not everything is heartburn, because it could be an ulcer. The only way you can know for sure is to talk to your doctor and get on triple antibiotic therapy for a couple weeks. There are a lot of over-the-counter remedies for heartburn, but you want to make sure you’re treating the right problem and not prolonging another one.

The Drs: Sore Throat Remedies

Next, a woman in the audience named Natalie shared that she has recurring sore throats. She’s tried home remedies and over-the-counter medications, but they always seem to come back. Dr Ross first suggested that she use a humidifier when she sleeps. Dr Ordon said you can also try a clove of garlic, and by “try” he means put it in your mouth and let it sit there for 10-15 minutes, if you can stand it.

Dr Jennifer Ashton suggested Natalie try apple cider vinegar, which is very acidic. It can kill some of the bacteria in the throat. Plus, honey mixed in with warm water can make a great throat gargle. Dr Ross said you can never go wrong with gargling warm salt water. She also suggested Natalie try sipping on some tomato juice with hot sauce in it because it can help soothe your throat after the pain intensifies for a moment.

If you’re having chronic sore throats, you should probably try to figure out the cause, so talk to your doctor! What are your best home remedies for a sore throat?