Most people may be familiar with the burning sensation of the chest, sometimes from eating certain foods. However, whether it is heartburn or indigestion, it can be confusing because the symptoms overlap. In fact, these terms are used synonymously in many circles. In medicine, heartburn and indigestion are overlapping but different entities. Heartburn is just one of several possible symptoms of indigestion. Understanding the language of heartburn and indigestion can help you discuss your symptoms with your doctor and decide on the appropriate next steps.
A woman has a burning sensation on her chest. (Source: Nicholas Eveleigh / The Image Bank / Getty Images) Heartburn is a key symptom of acid reflux
Heartburn, or burns usually located behind the sternum Or the feeling below is caused by acid reflux - the acidic contents of the stomach splash back up to the esophagus. The resulting esophageal irritations produce burning symptoms that are often accompanied by other symptoms such as oral sourness, reflux, and bel gas. Technically, the term heartburn can refer to chest discomfort. However, many people discuss their heartburn, indigestion and any accompanying symptoms as a separate issue.
Indigestion does not always involve reflux
Indigestion conveys a person with symptoms of stomach upset, perhaps related to his intake or specific diet, but not necessarily. Acid reflex Occasional heartburn ux is very common, so for many people say they have indigestion, most likely they are referring to acid reflux symptoms. However, many other possibilities besides acid reflux can make people feel that their stomach is having problems. For some people, the medical term dyspepsia is more suitable for these symptoms than heartburn. Indigestion is a burning discomfort in the stomach, sometimes compared to the pain of hunger - in addition to it also occurs in satiety. Like stomach acid reflux, indigestion can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, including bel gas, bloating and bloating, nausea or fullness.
The reason may be different
Heartburn is caused by reflux of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, causing irritation and burning. A muscular ring at the bottom of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter usually prevents reflux, but sometimes it does not form wellSealed. There are many foods that can cause heartburn, such as fatty foods, spicy foods and alcohol - known to cause sphincter relaxation. Common drugs, such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, also relax the lower esophageal sphincter and can cause heartburn.
When acid reflux is not the cause of indigestion or indigestion, there are usually no other causes - that is, there is no evidence of disease or any significant damage to the tissue. However, some cases of indigestion are indeed caused by specific diseases, including: - Stomach or intestinal ulcers or cancer - Infection with the Helicobacter pylori - Other conditions that lead to inflammation of the gastric lining - Esophageal hiatus, bloating Problems with the chest - problems with muscle contraction in the esophagus and stomach - pancreatic problems or bile flow - certain drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs
Like GERD, indigestion is usually due to excessive eating Or too fast, or caused by certain foods such as fatty foods or alcohol. If you feel stressed or anxious, indigestion is also more likely to occur.
Another similarity between terms - and general precautions - is that chest discomfort due to a heart attack may be incorrectly attributed to heartburn or indigestion.
Subsequent steps may vary
Most people in Whil occasionally have heartburn or indigestion, and symptoms that occur frequently or over time need to be evaluated by a doctor because they may indicate Serious illness.
In some cases, heartburn and indigestion respond to lifestyle changes. Avoid triggering food, lose excess weight, don't get too close to bedtime, and raising the bed is helpful. Eating less and eating more, eating slowly, not smoking or drinking, and reducing stress may also help. Heartburn also responds to over-the-counter and prescription drugs that suppress stomach acid.
If the underlying cause of the symptoms is unclear, additional examinations may be required in some cases and endoscopy may be performed. Endoscopy is a procedure in which an elongated tube containing a camera slides down the throat to inspect the digestive lining. The test can also determine the presence of H. pylori. If your doctor determines the underlying cause of indigestion, a specific treatment plan may be recommended. [123
Medical Consultant: Jonathan E. Aviv, M.D., FACS
