Heartburn is the symptom that causes a burning sensation in the stomach area, which can extend up the throat, and which usually happens after eating too much or eating high fat foods that are harder to digest.
This symptom is more common in pregnant women or overweight people, because in these situations the stomach undergoes pressure from the surrounding structures; however, when it is constant, it tends to appear when there is stomach ulcer, gastritis, hiatal hernia or gastric reflux, for example.
In addition, in the most severe cases, the reflux of hydrochloric acid from the stomach can reach the entire esophagus, causing a burning in the region of the chest that is called heartburn, as well as causing coughing, bitter taste in the mouth and constant belching. Learn more about identifying whether constant heartburn can be reflux.
Main symptoms
The classic symptoms of heartburn and burning include:
- Poor digestion and full stomach feeling;
- Reflux of food;
- Constant and involuntary flow;
- Swollen stomach;
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth;
- Pain and burning sensation in the throat.
Lifestyle changes are very important for heartburn sufferers, but there are cases where heartburn is not only triggered by eating habits, there are other clinical situations included, so people suffering from heartburn more than once a week, from recurrent form, they should go to the doctor for tests.
The gastroenterologist may ask for exams such as upper digestive endoscopy, for example, that an examination may evidence changes in the larynx and esophagus like Barrett's esophagus, and check the proper functioning of the valve that closes the stomach and prevents the reflux of food to the esophagus. If this valve is not well, specific medications for this purpose should be directed. Learn more about how digestive endoscopy is done and how this exam can identify stomach changes.
How is the treatment?
A great home remedy to end heartburn is fennel tea. It should be drunk in small, warm sips after meals. Other options are to take the juice of a pure lemon or half a glass of pure cold milk. In addition, it is also recommended:
- Did not eat much;
- Avoid acidic, fatty, spicy or very spicy foods;
- Do not smoke;
- Do not drink anything at mealtimes;
- Do not lie down right after eating;
- Use a tall pillow to sleep or put a 10 cm wedge on the bed headboard;
- Do not wear tight or tight clothing;
- Do not stay too long without eating;
- Do regular physical exercises;
- Only take medicines under medical supervision.
The best remedies for heartburn are antacids like Ranitidine, Pepsamar and Omeprazole. But it is important to say that antacids work by decreasing the acidity of the stomach and may be effective in heartburn, but they do not always resolve the cause of heartburn, so it is important to see a doctor. Learn more about home treatment options and remedies for heartburn.
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