Heartburn – what is it, what causes it, and how to prevent it?
Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning sensation that occurs in the esophagus. It's a common symptom with various potential causes, ranging from poor diet and excessive stress to serious gastrointestinal conditions. What triggers heartburn? What are its symptoms and underlying causes? How can it be treated? And is heartburn dangerous?
Table of contents
- Heartburn - what is it and where does it come from?
- Causes of heartburn - what triggers it?
- Symptoms of heartburn - how to recognize it
- Is heartburn dangerous?
- When is heartburn a reason to worry?
- How long does heartburn last and what brings it on?
- How to prevent heartburn - try these effective tips
- How to treat heartburn
- Summary - how to manage heartburn day to day
Heartburn - what is it and where does it come from?
Heartburn (from the Latin pyrosis) is a burning sensation behind the breastbone, often described as a “burning in the chest.” It's a common symptom caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus through the lower esophageal sphincter. This reverse movement, going against the normal direction of peristalsis, can stem from various causes and presents with different symptoms.
Causes of heartburn - what triggers it?
What causes heartburn? The primary cause is irritation of the esophageal lining, usually resulting from the reflux of acidic stomach contents – known as gastroesophageal reflux. This can be due to dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, often linked to factors such as excess body weight, poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, smoking, or spending prolonged time in a lying position. Overeating or eating too quickly and without proper chewing can also contribute to heartburn.
People are at higher risk of heartburn if they suffer from conditions such as:
- peptic ulcers (stomach and duodenal ulcers)
- hiatal hernia
- anxiety or neurosis
- indigestion
- biliary tract disorders
Increased heartburn frequency is also common in pregnant women, patients who’ve had stomach surgery, and individuals taking antibiotics or acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) on an empty stomach.
Symptoms of heartburn - how to recognize it
Heartburn typically presents as a burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone, and may radiate up toward the throat. Other common symptoms include a burning feeling in the esophagus and a bitter or sour taste in the mouth caused by acid reflux. Heartburn may also lead to hoarseness, a dry cough, and, in some cases, nausea or vomiting.
Is heartburn dangerous?
Occasional heartburn is usually not a cause for concern. However, if it’s persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor. Frequent heartburn can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or esophagitis.
When is heartburn a reason to worry?
If heartburn occurs at least twice a week and the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life, you should seek medical advice for further evaluation and diagnosis.
If heartburn is accompanied by intense and worsening chest pain, pain radiating to the arm, or symptoms like weakness, shortness of breath, palpitations, or dizziness, seek emergency medical help immediately. These symptoms could indicate a heart attack.
How long does heartburn last and what brings it on?
The duration of heartburn varies – it often subsides within a few hours, but in some cases, it can persist for days or even weeks.
Heartburn may occur sporadically in healthy individuals after eating foods that irritate the esophagus or slow gastric emptying, causing food to linger in the stomach and reflux into the esophagus. Certain foods may also weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, making it less effective at keeping stomach contents in place.
What causes heartburn? Common trigger foods include:
- fatty or heavy meals
- spicy dishes
- carbonated drinks
- alcohol
- strong coffee or tea
- mint
- citrus fruits
- tomatoes and tomato-based products
Many people also wonder: is heartburn after eating sweets common? Yes – it can be, especially with a diet high in sugary foods. Chocolate, in particular, is known to be a frequent trigger.
How to prevent heartburn - try these effective tips
To help prevent heartburn, consider home remedies such as quitting smoking and alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in moderate physical activity. A balanced diet is also key – avoid processed foods, heavy meals, and carbonated drinks. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can be beneficial, too. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and sleeping on your left side may also help reduce symptoms.
How to treat heartburn
In addition to lifestyle changes and a balanced diet, consider using dietary supplements that support digestion and may reduce the risk of heartburn. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor for thorough testing. A healthcare provider may recommend antacids or medications that reduce stomach acid production.
Summary - how to manage heartburn day to day
Heartburn is a burning sensation behind the breastbone with a variety of causes and symptoms. While it's often a minor issue linked to dietary habits, it can sometimes indicate a more serious health problem, so it shouldn't be ignored.
Helpful home remedies include lifestyle adjustments, sleeping on your left side, and using high-quality dietary supplements to ease symptoms. If heartburn is persistent or accompanied by additional symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor.
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