Heartburn occurs when the digestive contents in the stomach deviate from its normal digestive path and retrieve back to esophagus. Heartburn becomes worse with serious complications such as GERD and esophagus cancer when it becomes frequent. Heartburn has to be clearly distinguished from acid indigestion, which is the irritation in the duodenum. Most people consider occasional heartburn as the indication of the body's incompatibility with any particular food or consequences of unhealthy eating habits however, it is advised to have an expert consultation to avoid future complications.

Causes

The irritation is caused because the esophagus lining cannot withstand the acidic gastric juice. Heartburn occurs as a result of the faulty condition of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle of the esophagus. The underlying factors for the condition are not so evident. Hiatal hernia, a condition in which the change of the place of stomach and diaphragm weakness occurs, is suspected as a major reason for heartburn. Improper diet, such as spicy or acidic and bad habits such as cigarette, alcohol may disturb the muscles. The faulty posture also will contribute.

Symptoms

The characteristic symptom of heartburn is the burning sensation in the chest area which can be felt as far as the abdomen. The exact position of the irritation will be lower the breast bone which is the gullet of esophagus while in some cases the irritation will be also felt in the midline of the back. In severe cases, irritation will be transformed into pain.

Diagnosis

Physician can easily diagnose heartburn from its characteristic symptoms. Only in chronic conditions diagnostic tests such as endoscopy and pH monitoring are performed.

Treatment

Usually heartburn patients resort to over the counter tablets however, it has to be avoided since it may lead to complications. Physicians usually prescribe antacids such as Gelusil, Maalox and Mylanta to neutralize the acidity. H-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors are also prescribed to reduce the recurrence of the symptom. Alternative medicines suggest drinking neutralizing drinks to reduce the irritation while drinking water will be an immediate remedy to alleviate the heartburn.

Prevention

As heartburn is mostly associated with life style factors, strict control of the triggering factors can help to control it. The avoidance of risky factors such as excessive eating, spicy and acidic diet, and wearing tight waist clothes will help to reduce the occurrence of heartburn. Maintaining a high head position, can avoid it, while lying down.

Heartburn is a common disease which does not need to be serious. However, special attention has to be taken in its frequent recurrence as it may be an indication of other serious disorders.