Heartburn: Causes, symptoms, and treatments – Medical News Today
Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux, a condition where some of the stomach contents travel back up into the esophagus, or food pipe. It creates a burning pain in the lower chest.
Persistent acid reflux that happens more than twice per week is what experts call ga…….
Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux, a condition where some of the stomach contents travel back up into the esophagus, or food pipe. It creates a burning pain in the lower chest.
Persistent acid reflux that happens more than twice per week is what experts call gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
A person will feel heartburn when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, the pipe that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Heartburn is a symptom of GERD.
The American College of Gastroenterology estimate that more than 15 million people in the United States experience heartburn symptoms every day.
In this article, we discuss heartburn, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
It is common for people to experience occasional heartburn, and it is rarely a significant cause for concern.
However, a doctor may diagnose recurrent acid reflux as GERD. This condition can have a serious impact on health, and it can indicate other underlying health issues.
People of all ages may develop GERD. Some of the most common causes include obesity and smoking.
The most frequent symptom of acid reflux or heartburn is a feeling of warmth, heat, or burning in the chest and throat. This is due to the stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus.
Other symptoms include:
- a burning sensation in the middle of the chest
- a burning, indigestion-like pain
- a foul, acrid taste in the mouth
If a person experiences acid reflux symptoms often, they should consult a doctor, who may refer them to a gastroenterologist — a specialist in gut medicine — for further investigation.
Using some lifestyle and behavioral tips can help prevent or reduce heartburn. Suggestions include:
- following a healthy diet, with a limited fat intake
- avoiding eating 2–3 hours before bedtime
- elevating the head of the bed before lying down
- avoiding wearing tight-fitting clothes
- avoiding heavy lifting and straining
- avoiding food triggers, such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy food, acidic foods, or foods causing gas and bloating
- reaching or maintaining a moderate weight
- quitting smoking, if applicable
- exercising regularly
- eating smaller meals more frequently
</…….
