Heartburn: causes, symptoms and remedies
Heartburn is a common ailment that affects many people. Often associated with stomach acidity, heartburn can cause considerable discomfort and negatively affect our days. Let’s try to understand the causes of heartburn, its associated symptoms and the remedies to alleviate discomfort.
What is heartburn?
Heartburn, also known by the medical term ‘pyrosis’, is a sensation that occurs in the upper abdomen, behind the chest (restrosternally), which can travel up to the lower part of the throat. It is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux, a phenomenon in which the gastric juices back up into the oesophagus, causing irritation and inflammation.
Causes of heartburn
There can be several causes of heartburn. Let’s try to identify the main ones.
Unhealthy diet: our food choices can play an important role in our stomach health. For example, excessive consumption of spicy, fatty and fried foods, chocolate, citrus fruits and fizzy drinks can contribute to the onset of heartburn.
Obesity: excess weight can also play a role. Excessive pressure on the abdomen can push the gastric juices into the oesophagus and cause a burning sensation.
Sedentary lifestyle: lack of physical activity can hinder digestion and increase the risk of heartburn.
Cigarette smoking: it is well known that smoking is bad for your health. However, not everyone knows that cigarette smoking can also adversely affect heartburn by worsening the health of our stomachs and facilitating the rise of gastric juices.
Pregnancy: fluctuations in hormones and pressure from the growing uterus can cause heartburn in pregnant women.
Symptoms of heartburn
Common symptoms associated with heartburn include:
- A burning sensation or pain in the upper abdomen or behind the chest;
- Acid reflux and rising food in the throat;
- Pain that worsens after meals or when lying down;
- Nausea and a feeling of early satiety;
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of a lump in your throat.
Heartburn remedies
In the case of heartburn, it can be helpful to pay attention to your habits and lifestyle:
- A balanced diet: opt for light, frequent meals instead of large meals; reduce consumption of spicy, fatty, fried and acidic foods. Include fibre-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains in your diet.
- Avoid bad habits: stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption. Avoid eating just before bedtime and maintain an upright posture during meals.
- Lose weight: If you are overweight, try to lose weight gradually through a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise
Useful tips for heartburn
