Heartburn is an unpleasant burning sensation or burning pain in the breast, behind the sternum or in the upper abdomen. This is a common condition that many of us feel periodically. What causes heartburn, what symptoms are related to it, and how to deal with it? Let's take a closer look.
Causes of heartburn:
- Acid Reflux: One of the most common causes of heartburn is acid reflux from the stomach to the esophagus. This is due to the weakened lower sphincter of the esophagus, which usually prevents the reverse of acid. When the acid enters the esophagus, there is a feeling of heartburn.
- Increased pressure in the stomach: if you have excessive abdomen, pregnancy or obesity, it can increase the stomach pressure and promote acid reflux.
- Diet: Various foods can provoke heartburn, including fatty, spicy or sour foods, as well as alcohol, coffee and chocolate.
- Medicines: Some medicines can cause heartburn, including some antibiotics, aspirin, iron -based drugs and others.
- Tobacco smoking: smoking can cause relaxation of the lower esophagus sphincter and promote heartburn.
Symptoms of heartburn:
Symptoms of heartburn include:
- Burning or burning pain in the breast area.
- The feeling of bitter or sour taste in the mouth.
- Eructation.
- Pain while swallowing.
- Feeling pressure in the chest, which can be mistakenly associated with cardiac problems.
Treatment and Prevention Methods:
- Dietary change: Avoid products that can provoke heartburn and reduce portions. It is important to eat slowly and not eat at bedtime.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: nicotine and alcohol can increase heartburn.
- Medicines: The doctor may prescribe antacids or prokinetics to relieve symptoms.
- Avoid tilting: The tilt of the body after eating can contribute to the acid reflux. Therefore, it is better to sit vertically or walk after meals.
- Lift the head of the bed: if heartburn is disturbed by you at night, lift the top of the bed or use a high pillow to lift your head.
Heartburn can be an unpleasant condition, but with the right changes in lifestyle and treatment, it can be well controlled. If you have frequent or severe heartburn symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor for additional assessment and recommendations.
