Heartburn

Whenever this illness comes to mind, one often wonders if it concerns the heart. Well, although the name suggests it, heartburn is not an illness of the strongest muscle in the human body. As a matter of fact, heartburn is in no way connected with the heart. Heartburn is actually a symptom that affects a person's digestive system. It is a searing pain felt in the abdomen's upper area, just below the chest. Heartburn is felt by well over 60 million people in the United States.

Causes and Risk Factor
Heartburn is generally caused by the types of food one eats, the habits he engages in, and the activities he engages himself in. When one eats, for example, the food goes into his mouth to the esophagus (a tube-like digestive organ) to the stomach. However, before the food reaches the stomach, it goes into a door-like entry called a valve first. This food will be broken down into substances by the gastric juices in the stomach. These gastric juices are prevented from going out by the same valve where the food comes in. However, if one eats too much, especially before going to bed, there is a tendency that this valve may open up leading to the leaking of the gastric juices to the esophagus. As a result, the esophagus will react and the fiery sensation in the upper abdomen begins.

Apart from people who have poor eating habits, people afflicted with hiatal hernia suffer from heartburn, too. Hiatal hernia (known also as Hiatus hernia) is the deformity of some portions of stomach near the esophagus. This abnormal condition happens when the stomach's wall is extended to the valve. 

Eating more than what one should is not the only thing that triggers heartburn. There are certain foods that, if eaten, may cause heartburn. Just some of these foods include candies, soda, cocoa products, caffeine, junk foods, and alcoholic beverages. In addition, too much force exerted on the abdomen, uncomfortable dresses, and stress are factors contributing to the pain of the organ connecting the mouth and the stomach.

Heartburn Symptoms
Besides feeling something very hot inside the chest (or rather, below it), a person who is experiencing heartburn also has an unpleasant acidic taste in his mouth. He may also have difficulty swallowing and may find himself constantly burping or belching. In addition, a person may lose his voice as a symptom of heartburn.

Sometimes, the symptoms for heartburn imitate that of a heart attack. However, one should keep in mind that, unlike a heart attack, heartburn is not brought about by a physical activity. One should be able to identify the difference between the symptoms of a heart attack and heartburn so as not to mistake the one for the other.

Heartburn Treatment
The problem with heartburn is the acid juice from the stomach. One can easily solve this by taking medications that block or weaken the acid. Drinking plenty of water can also help ease the chest pain. If a person is lying down when attacked by heartburn, it is suggested that he elevate his head higher than the rest of his body. As for those with hiatal hernia, they can undergo surgery to correct their condition.

Prevention
Developing a healthy way of living is the best that one can do to avoid experiencing heartburn. A person should observe proper diet, which includes the right amount of food he takes, and regular exercise. He should start eating foods that are rich in protein and avoid those that are high in fats and cholesterol. A slow and light stroll is best after eating, rather than lying down after a meal. A person should also avoid smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages, as they contribute to the frequent occurrences of heartburn.