Heartburn is a common ailment. We explain what causes the uncomfortable discomfort and what can be done to alleviate it.
What exactly is heartburn?
Stomach acid goes far up into the esophagus or even into the mouth, irritating the sensitive mucous membrane and causing pressure behind the breastbone as well as searing sensation. Heartburn is another name for reflux. Heartburn can develop as a result of eating fatty foods or drinking acidic beverages, and it is usually harmless.
If heartburn occurs frequently, however, reflux disease may be present. In this case, a malfunction of the sphincter muscle that seals the stomach against the esophagus is usually the cause of the symptoms.
The esophagus cries out for help.
Acid regurgitation is frequently the first symptom of reflux. If you only get heartburn once in a while, home cures for heartburn can frequently help you get it under control. If reflux disease is the cause, medicines and a change in lifestyle may be beneficial.
The symptoms should not be ignored: if left untreated, frequent heartburn can lead to inflammation of the esophageal mucosa, among other things.
Causes of frequent heartburn
There are several possible causes of heartburn. These include:
Sphincter muscle dysfunction: The exact reason why the sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus can no longer perform its function effectively has yet to be discovered, however, there are some risk factors. Frequent consumption of alcohol and nicotine, for example, both of which relax the muscles.
Diet: Among other things, fatty and sugary foods, chocolate, juices (especially from citrus fruits) and coffee promote heartburn.
Certain antibiotics and antihypertensive medicines, for example, increase the incidence of heartburn.
Constant stress and psychological pressure are also linked to an increased incidence of heartburn.
Obesity: When a large amount of fat is stored in the abdomen, the pressure there increases, pushing the stomach contents upward.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy can also lead to increased pressure in the abdomen and thus heartburn.
Various diseases: Heartburn is one of the symptoms of various diseases. These include hiatal hernia, gastritis or esophagitis, irritable stomach, or diabetes.
Heartburn signs and symptoms
The name "heartburn" comes from the fact that it causes "boiling" stomach contents to ascend up into the esophagus, causing searing discomfort. Additionally, the following signs and symptoms may appear:
- (sour) belching, usually of acid, but sometimes also of food mush.
- In the upper abdomen, there is a feeling of pressure.
- Chest discomfort that is burning
- Coughing and hoarseness are common side effects.
- Tooth enamel that has been damaged
- In the mouth, there is an unpleasant taste.
What are the consequences of chronic heartburn?
You don't have to be concerned with heartburn if it only happens once in a while. However, if the discomfort persists, it might develop to the following secondary diseases:
Inflammation of the esophageal mucous membrane, which promotes the formation of ulcers.
Pathological cell abnormalities in the lower esophagus that might develop to a malignant esophageal tumor
Treatment:
How to Get Rid of Acid Reflux
Gentle home treatments can help with heartburn that is either moderate or occurs only sometimes.
These are some of them:
Lukewarm, still water: the water dilutes the gastric juice and ensures that it runs back into the stomach. Starchy foods: dry white bread or rusks can bind excess stomach acid, easing the pain. Chewing gum: Chewing gum promotes saliva production, which also dilutes and further neutralizes stomach acid. Milk: Drinking a glass of milk is also thought to be able to neutralize stomach acid.
Treatment for heartburn: What else helps?
If the symptoms are too severe and/or home cures are no longer effective, medication can be used to relieve heartburn in conjunction with a doctor. If none of these methods work, surgery may be considered in some circumstances.
How can I avoid getting heartburn on occasion?
Because one of the most prevalent causes of heartburn is an unhealthy lifestyle, changing your personal habits can often assist.
The following tips can help prevent heartburn and protect the esophagus from stomach acid:
- Abstaining from alcohol and nicotine
- Avoiding fatty or sugary foods, acidic drinks, and coffee, especially in the evening
- Regular exercise, at least two to three times a week for at least 30 minutes each time
- About four hours before bedtime, have your last meal.
- At best, excess weight is decreased.
Reading tip: We go over how to promote your digestion and what to do if you have stomach pains or constipation. We also explain why an esophageal rupture is so deadly.
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