Just On Health

Heartburn Symptoms

April 5th, 2008

Symptoms of Heartburn

The ache of heartburn is described as a burning feeling in the chest. Time and again, the feeling may perhaps extend up into the throat, jaw, arms, or back. That’s why heartburn is over and over again flawed for chest pain owed to a heart attack. On the other hand, do not second guess yourself. If you are having chest pain for any cause, look for medical attention right away, if only to rule out a heart attack.

Heartburn (often called acid indigestion) characteristically occurs 30-60 minutes subsequent to meals. The pain worsens when lying down, bending forward, and straining to exceed stools. The pain is comforted by standing straight, swallowing saliva or sipping water, or even by taking some antacids.

* If minute amounts of stomach acid or food travel beyond the esophagus and up into the mouth, you possibly will experience pungent or unpleasant taste. This is known as regurgitation. It is ordinary after meals, especially if you are lying down, bending over, or straining.

* Stomach acid can also affect the respiratory tract, causing asthma, hoarseness, chronic cough, sore throat, or tooth damage (acid eats the enamel on teeth). You may feel as if you have a lump in your throat.

* If the acid exposure continues for long periods of time, the esophagus becomes damaged. You may then have difficulty swallowing. In more serious cases, you may lose weight and become dehydrated. Very rarely, the esophagus may bleed or tear completely because it is so damaged. In severe cases, you may vomit blood or have small amounts of blood in your bowel movements. However, all these are uncommon.

Entry Filed under: Heartburn, Symptoms