Today on our Healthpository series: Heartburn

Today on our Healthpository series: Heartburn

Yusuf Babatunde
Health Advocate
Healthpository

Heartburn is the sensational burning that occurs deep inside the chest.
This is a condition whereby stomach acid finds its way back to the *oesophagus* also spelt as *esophagus*.
This process is also known as *’Acid reflux’*.

Esophagus is the pipe that connects the throat with the stomach.

It is noteworthy that *Heartburn* has no connections with the heart, although the symptoms of heart attack or heart disease can be similar with that of heartburn.

Occasional heartburn is nothing to be deeply worried about.

According to webmed.com,
Heartburn symptoms can start up because of a problem with a muscular valve called the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) which is located where the esophagus meets the stomach below the rib cage and slightly left of center.

Normally, with the help of gravity, the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) keeps stomach acid right where it should be in your stomach.
When it’s working right, the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) opens to allow food into your stomach or to let you belch, then closes again.

However, if the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) opens too often or doesn’t close tightly enough, stomach acid can slip into the esophagus and cause a burning sensation.

Symptoms
-Burning sensation in the chest that usually occurs after eating.

-Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over.

-Sour, Bitter or Acidic taste in the mouth.

-Difficulty in swallowing.

Cautiously, frequently occurring heartburn can be a symptom of serious health conditions that require adequate medical attention.

Causes

Few of the causes of heartburn are:

-Overeating
-Obesity
-Constipation
-Pregnancy

Treatment
Mostly, heartburn can be treated with the use of over the counter drugs, such as:

*Antacid*
*Acid blockers*.

Heartburn can also be managed with lifestyle changes.

If symptoms persist after using drugs for few days, quickly see your health care provider for prompt diagnosis and proper treatment.