Heart burn/acid reflux.


Acid reflux also known as heart burn is a burning pain in the chest, just behind the breastbone. It happens when
stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth into your stomach. Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Most people manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own with lifestyle changes. However, heartburn that occurs too frequently maybe a symptom of a more serious condition like esophageal cancer, it is there of utmost importance to see a doctor in this case.

Normally when you swallow, a band of muscle (lower esophageal sphincter) around the bottom of your esophagus relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. Then the muscle tightens again. If the band of muscle relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn/acid reflux. Foods that trigger heartburn include spicy foods, onions, fatty or fried foods, peppermint, chocolate, alcohol and so on. Being overweight or pregnant also can increase your risk of experiencing heartburn.

A symptom of heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night. The pain might worsen when lying or bending over.

Heartburn/acid reflux can be treated with medications like antacids which help to neutralize stomach acid. If medications do not work, see your doctor. Some lifestyle changes can help to ease heartburn. They include maintaining a healthy weight, avoid tight fitting cloths which puts pressure on the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter, avoid food that triggers heartburn, avoid lying down after a meal, avoid late meals, avoid smoking.

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