During the holidays, it’s easy to overeat. With so many family gatherings and celebrations focused on indulgent meals and heavy desserts, it can be difficult to watch your diet and make healthy choices. Unfortunately, going overboard on fatty foods and sugary treats can negatively impact your health and cause heartburn. 

Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua, Hawaii, often sees patients around this time of year who complain of heartburn as a result of holiday eating. If you’re having trouble returning to a healthy eating regimen and it's affecting your health, you should see a doctor. Kona Community Hospital reveals three key heartburn symptoms to look out for:

• Burning Chest: The most common heartburn symptom is a burning sensation in the chest area. This uncomfortable feeling can be caused by various foods and beverages, including alcohol, high acidity drinks like coffee and juice, or fatty, deep-fried foods. For some people, spicy foods can also cause a burning sensation in the chest. It’s important to monitor what you eat and how it affects you so you can identify your trigger foods.
• Throat Issues: Aside from a burning feeling in the chest, a sour taste in the back of your throat or the feeling of food being stuck in the back of your throat can be a symptom of heartburn.
• Shortness of Breath: In severe cases of heartburn, you might experience shortness of breath, dizziness, a cold sweat, and even a radiating sensation in the arms or neck. If you experience these symptoms along with a burning feeling in the chest or throat, it’s important to consult a health care professional right away.

If you live in the Kealakekua, Hawaii area and you’re looking for general health care or services like weight loss programs and rehabilitation, call Kona Community Hospital today at (808) 322-9311 and schedule your next appointment. To find out more about their facilities and for a full list of their services and bill pay options, be sure to visit their website.