What Does Heartburn Feel Like?
Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
Heartburn - what does it feel llike? Pyrosis, is the medical term used for heartburn and can be a very unpleasant condition. The main feeling of heartburn is a burning sensation, but identification of the condition can be determined via other factors. Heartburn pain will normally be below the breastbone or sternum. People who suffer from heartburn which is said to be one in five of us, will experience heartburn at least once a week.
Heartburn is caused by the lower esophageal sphincter not functioning properly. Normally this sphincter is responsible for keeping the contents of the stomach contained in the stomach and separated from the esophagus. The acidic contents of the stomach will travel up the esophagus if the sphincter malfunctions, this is what creates the burning sensation in the chest.
Heartburn - how long does it last? Heartburn pain lasts anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, and often worsens when the patient is lying down. When eating it can feel like food gets stuck in the chest making it difficult to swallow. The burning sensation can also travel up the throat, or in some cases, it is experienced as a sour or acidic tasting fluid in the back of the throat.
While this painful, burning sensation is an annoyance, for most people it is never more than that. However, in some cases, frequent heartburn can lead to further complications. Frequent heartburn over a long period of time can result in ulcers or even esophageal cancer. This is known as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
Lifestyle conditions can contribute to heartburn along with smoking. The added pressure that can be caused to the stomach through obesity and pregnancy may increase the likelihood of you suffering from heartburn. Similarly, tight belts, along with tight-fitting clothes can cause added pressure. The frequency of heartburn can be increased through stress or certain medications.
Those who have never had a medical diagnosis of the condition may wonder what does heartburn feel like.Angina, in addition, to other medical conditions can be mistaken for heartburn. The pain can be eased for frequent sufferers by modifying your diet and lifestyle. The pain should be lessened or eliminated at least on an acute basis by the antacids. Pain that runs down your arms or radiates to the shoulder, could mean more serious conditions and medical advice should be sought instantly.
heartburn Pyrosis
