When people mention heartburn it has nothing at all to do with the heart. What they are referring to is not indigestion. It does often accompany indigestion which is characterized by many things including; Growling stomach, Abdominal pain, Burning in stomach, belching (and/or gas), Nausea and an acidic taste. Often people experience a burning sensation deep in the chest (called heartburn) along with indigestion. Heartburn itself is caused by the reflux of acidic stomach fluids that enter the lower end of the esophagus. There is a muscular valve in the Esophagus which is normally closed except when we eat or belch. If this valve does not close properly or enough, stomach acid seems (refluxes) into the esophagus. This valve is called the Lower esophageal sphincter (LES.)
The combination of having a weak LES coupled with eating of spicy foods often causes flair up of heartburn which causes a burning sensation in the chest. There are certain foods which actually loosen or relax the LES and they include citrus fruits, onions, chocolate, garlic, tomatoes, alcohol and coffee. These things and also foods that are high in fats often lead to heartburn.
Along with the burning sensation in the chest, someone experiencing heartburn may have the sensation of food re-entering your mouth. There may also be a sour taste associated with it. An occasional bout of heartburn is not serious. If you have heartburn on an average of once a month it is considered mild. Once a week is moderate and if it occurs daily it is considered severe. Mild heartburn is normally nothing to worry about. When heartburn becomes chronic and you begin to experience it weekly or daily, complications can arise. It can cause the esophagus to become raw and scarred which narrows the esophagus making it hard to swallow.
To cut down on bouts of heartburn, besides taking over the counter or prescribed medication you can try:
â?‚??˜ Eating more slowly
â?‚??˜ Eating several smaller meals a day instead of 2 or 3 large meals
â?‚??˜ Don’t go to bed on a full stomach
â?‚??˜ Raise the head of your bed several inches
â?‚??˜ Chew Gum
â?‚??˜ Wear Loose fitting clothing
If heartburn continues to be a problem, see your doctor. Serious complications can arise from chronic heartburn left unattended. Taking the above steps should help. If not, seek professional help.
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