What Health Risks Does Pouch Tobacco Cause?

Posted on Tue, 29 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 Answered on

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : i chew pouch tobacco. In the mornings after I put a pouch in my mouth I feel burning in my lower chest. I immediately get rid of the pouch. As the day goes on and stress of job builds I put another pouch in, same results of this burning sensation. There is no tightness, just a feeling like heartburn. Besides the fact I should quit immediately (if I don't take the pouch I don't get this feeling), what health risks are most likely the problem at this point? I have dipped pouches for 2.5 years, I am 45yrs old.

Answered by Dr. Klarida Papaqako (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Seems like gastritis symptom.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thank you for using Healthcaremagic to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.

The burning feeling you are describing, seems more like a stomach issue. The fact that it comes immediately after chewing something, and also knowing that tobacco causes higher acidity in the stomach, I think this is most possible.

Of course, despite quitting it, my other advises is to be careful with your diet and avoid greasy and spicy foods.
I see you take zantac, which is helpful, but not stronger enough to heal a possible gastritis. So I would advise to take Omeprazole 20mg or Panotprazole 40 mg, ect, once/day in the morning for 2 weeks.

If worse or not better, I would recommend seeing a local doctor. You may need to have a fibrogastroscopy to rule out a possible gastric ulcer.

Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.

Regards,
Dr. Papaqako

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad