Heartburn occurs when stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, a condition known as reflux. Its causes range from unhealthy dietary habits to health or hormonal changes that affect the efficiency of the esophageal valve.
How Heartburn Occurs
There is a muscular valve at the end of the esophagus that opens to let food pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent it from returning. The stomach secretes strong acids and enzymes to digest food; if this valve weakens, those contents leak back into the esophagus. Since the esophageal wall cannot withstand these acids as the stomach wall does, inflammation and ulcers appear.
What are the Common Causes of Heartburn?
Several factors combine to trigger this problem, most notably:
- Excess Weight: Obesity, specifically in the abdominal area, increases pressure on the stomach, pushing acids backward. Data indicates that women who are overweight or obese are 2 to 3 times more likely to suffer from this than those with a normal weight.
- Dietary and Daily Habits:
- Eating large meals, or eating dinner late and sleeping immediately after.
- Excessive consumption of fried foods, fatty foods, spices, pepper, onions, and acidic foods.
- Consuming caffeine (such as coffee and carbonated drinks), chocolate, hard candies, and gum.
- Smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Hormonal Changes: Increased progesterone during pregnancy, or changes in estrogen and progesterone levels due to contraceptive pills, may lead to the relaxation of the esophageal valve.
- Medications: Some treatments increase the risk of occurrence, including antibiotics, osteoporosis medications, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Other Factors: Psychological stress and hiatal hernia, which may cause part of the stomach to move toward the chest cavity.
When Does Heartburn Become Serious?
Acidity is often a simple condition, but it becomes serious if it recurs and leads to complications such as:
- Inflammation of the lower part of the esophagus.
- The appearance of esophageal ulcers causing gradual or acute bleeding that may be life-threatening and lead to anemia.
- The development of ulcers into abnormal cell changes known as “Barrett’s,” which may turn into esophageal cancer.
Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux
In addition to the burning sensation, signs may appear indicating the condition is worsening, including:
- Persistent hoarseness in the voice.
- Unexplained cough.
- Difficulty swallowing, which is one of the most serious symptoms.
Treatment and Prevention Methods
Reflux can be controlled through a healthy lifestyle that includes:
- Maintaining an ideal weight and practicing moderate physical activity.
- Organizing food quantities and timing.
- Avoiding lying down immediately after taking medications.
- In advanced cases, a doctor prescribes therapeutic medications to prevent the development of health risks.
FAQ
What is reflux and why does it happen?
It results from a weakness in the muscular valve connecting the esophagus and the stomach, allowing digestive acids and enzymes to return to the esophagus and irritate it.
When does heartburn become serious?
The danger lies in repeated occurrences that lead to esophageal ulcers, bleeding, or the transformation of cells into “Barrett’s” condition, which may cause cancer.
How is this condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis is done through medical examinations or the use of an esophageal endoscope, and samples may be taken from ulcers or the esophageal wall if necessary.
When Should You Visit a Doctor Immediately?
You should consult a doctor in the following cases:
- Appearance of difficulty swallowing.
- Recurring pain in the center of the chest, especially for those with obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes (in this case, it is advised to see a cardiologist).
- Appearance of symptoms of bleeding or blood loss.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for consultation with a specialist physician.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team