The Implications Of Constant Heartburn
Heartburn is a result of acid from the stomach reaching the esophagus. There are many causes of heartburn and some can be prevented just by managing meals well or wearing the right kind of clothing. Constant heartburn is a cause for concern because this may be a symptom of something more serious or may result to some other condition.
Heartburn can be a painful condition that can recur or may only happen once in a while. The pain can usually start at the sternum or the middle of the base of the ribcage and radiate up to the neck or jaw line. The pain from heartburn can be easily compared to a fiery feeling in the middle of the chest or a heart attack.
Common Causes Of Heartburn
For those who do not suffer constant heartburn, their heartburn can be caused by the position you are in after eating, clothing which are too tight around the stomach region and eating too much acidic or spicy foods. Constant heartburn has other causes which are sometimes not related to the causes of ordinary heartburn.
Most of the common causes of heartburn can be prevented which is why GERD can be prevented in some cases. Although, some cases of GERD are truly due to some physical disorder that can not be prevented.
Cause For Concern Of Constant Heartburn
Constant heartburn is a common symptom of GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Gastroesophageal reflux disease can turn nasty if left untreated. Actually, this disease is the result of long term acid reflux or heartburn on the esophagus. There are many reasons for gastroesophageal reflux disease but the primary cause is constant heartburn.
There are many causes of constant heartburn; these causes include disorders of the sphincter, impaired expulsion of gastric acid from the stomach, too much muscle relaxation around the sphincter and a hiatus hernia. Another cause of constant heartburn is the damaged esophagus that makes it more sensitive to acid reflux. You can suspect that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD if these symptoms are present, constant heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, a hoarse voice, chronic earache and nausea. There are other symptoms of GERD but constant heartburn will be the most prevalent.
Constant heartburn can not only be a symptom of GERD but it can also cause GERD itself. If you are not vigilant concerning heartburn by adjusting your diet, lifestyle and clothing, this can result to gastroesophageal disease.