Causes and risk factors
The opening of the stomach is guarded by a valve called as lower esophageal sphincter.
This valve prevents the back flow of the content of the stomach into the esophagus.
The stomach produces certain acids which help in digestion. Any functional or structural abnormality of the sphincter can cause the acid to move back into the esophagus.
This regurgitation of the acid produces a burning sensation known as heartburn.
Certain factors which cause heartburn are smoking, excess of alcohol, certain food products like tea, coffee, chocolates and meat. Heartburn can also be caused due to diseases of esophagus like esophagitis or esophageal cancer. Pregnancy and obesity are other contributing factors.
Symptoms
The patient usually comes up with complaints of burning sensation in the sternal region. It begins in the epigastric region and radiates towards the neck. The burning is aggravated after eating or during exercise or on lying down. The complaints are relieved for time being on drinking water or antacids. Recurrent episodes of acid reflux not only hampers the daily activity of the individual but can give rise to Esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus.
Investigations
The diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and physical examination. Certain investigations are advised by the doctor to rule out the underlying cause’s .Barium meal X- ray, ultrasonography of the abdomen and endoscopy can be done. Certain routine sets of investigations can also be advised.
Treatment
Treatment comprises of finding out the underlying cause. Appropriate treatment measures are then adopted. Medications like antacids or proton pump inhibitors are started. Certain measures which needs to be adopted are replacing large heavy meals with small and frequent ones, having dinner at least 2 hours before bedtime, Lose weight if your are obese. Identify and avoid things that trigger heartburn along with limiting the intake of fatty and rich food.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the complaints. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in combating the sufferings.
