My Heart Won’t Burn On: No Room For Acid Up Here

A burning sensation that creeps up the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste – heartburn is a discomfort familiar to many. It is not just a passing inconvenience; it can significantly impact daily life. In this blog post we will explore its causes, effects, and effective management strategies.

Heartburn, despite its name, has little to do with the heart. Instead, it is a symptom of acid reflux, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. Stomach acid is quite potent, as bodily fluids go, but is very dilute in the stomach in comparison to industrial/domestic uses (like removing rust from metal, or reducing the pH of a swimming pool). The stomach secretes bicarbonate and mucus to protect it from the stomach acid. But the oesophagus lacks the protective lining that the stomach possesses, making it susceptible to irritation from acidic stomach contents.

Common triggers for heartburn include certain foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy or fatty dishes. Lifestyle factors, including obesity, smoking, and lying down after a meal, can also contribute. Additionally, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, and certain medications may increase the likelihood of experiencing heartburn.

The main culprit in heartburn is the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) - ring of muscle that separates the oesophagus from the stomach, acting as a valve to prevent the backflow of stomach acid. When this valve weakens or relaxes inappropriately, acid can escape into the oesophagus, causing the burning sensation characteristic of heartburn. In babies, this muscle is still developing, which is why they have reflux so frequently.

Although the discomfort, for most people, is temporary, chronic acid reflux can lead to complications such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which may result in inflammation, ulcers, and even changes to the cells lining the oesophagus, increasing the risk of oesophageal cancer.

Effective management of heartburn involves lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, medical intervention. Dietary adjustments, such as avoiding trigger foods and consuming smaller, more frequent meals, can alleviate symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of the bed are lifestyle changes that may reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn.

Over-the-counter antacids and acid reducers can provide temporary relief by neutralising or decreasing stomach acid. However, for persistent or severe cases, consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable. Prescription medications that reduce acid production or strengthen the LES may be recommended.

In conclusion, although heartburn is often something we can manage by choosing our meals and portions with care, there may be a physiological reason for recurrent heartburn. Proactive management not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also safeguards against the potential complications associated with chronic acid reflux, fostering a healthier and more comfortable daily life.

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At Smart Biotech, we believe that it is important to provide reliable information, so you can trust what we say. We use sources like Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, the United Kingdom National Health Service, and other sources that are reviewed by appropriately qualified specialists.