Chronic Heartburn
Jason Rickard
Chronic heartburn is one of the serious gastric disorders which
is characterized by the frequent recurrence of heartburn. It is
often neglected as a common gastric disorder but chronic
disorder must not be ignored as such since it may be an
indication of any other serious disorder. Heartburn which is
the burning feeling in the chest, can be classified as chronic
if it recurs more than twice a week.
Heartburn occur when the gastric substances enters into the
esophagus. Chronic heartburn is also dangerous on its own since
the frequent contact with the acidic stomach contents will harm
the lining of the esophagus and cause inflammation. It requires
immediate medical attention since prolonged occurrence of the
heartburn may result the risk of complications such as
esophageal ulcer, esophageal bleeding, strictures and even
esophagus cancer.
Causes
Chronic heartburn can be caused by the serious impairment of
the esophagus muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter
(LES). Hiatal hernia and many of the lifestyle factors were
suspected to be the reason for it however chronic heartburn
most often occurs as a result of the many serious disorders
such as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, ulcers,
cancers, and severe gastric tissue impairment.
Symptoms
The symptom of chronic heartburn is the repeated occurrence of
the burning sensation in the chest cavity. Even though the
irritation occurs in usually below the breast bone, the pain
will spread to the whole chest cavity such as back also. In
some of the cases the irritation will spread to throat and even
mouth. In severe conditions, the pain becomes intolerable.
Diagnosis
Chronic heartburn will be evident from the symptoms itself
however physicians will suggest the patient have more detailed
diagnostic tests to precisely identify the degree of impairment
of the esophagus and the associated diseases. Barium x-ray,
endoscopy, pH determination and esophageal impedance tests are
the common diagnostic procedures to determine chronic heartburn
Treatment
Medical assistance is essential for chronic heartburn to
overcome the repeated disturbances. Along with the popular
medications such as antacids, H-2 receptor blockers and proton
pump inhibitors, physicians used to recommend prescription
strength medications to minimize its manifestations. Prokinetic
activators are also suggested in many occasions. The treatment
is actually focused on not only minimize the symptoms, but also
to heal the impaired sites and to rejuvenate it. In severe
conditions, surgery is also recommended, according to the
condition demands.
Prevention
Immediate prevention is not actually practical for chronic
heartburn however a balanced routine can help you to avoid the
life style factors that may contribute to the disease. Practice
a good posture for sitting, standing and lying down, avoid spicy
and acid diet and bad habits such as cigarette smoking and
alcohol and also exercise to reduce weight. Hence, a balanced
living can help you to prevent heartburn, as with any other
disease.
About The Author: Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite
Shop -
http://www.yourfavouriteshop.com - Offering White Noise
and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health -
http://www.hapahapa.com for more articles.
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