Heart burn

A burning sensation in the upper stomach, below the breast bone. The pain can be felt as rising through the chest to the neck.

Causes:

Sometimes food from the stomach may travel up into the esophagus. Acid from the stomach cause the discomfort and burning sensation.

Some esophageal muscles do not function properly.

Could be because of side effect of some drugs (contact your physician immediately)

How to avoid re-occurrence:

• Avoid alcohol
• Caffeine rich drinks (tea, coffee)
• Carbonated drinks
• Spicy foods
• Chocolate
• Tomato
• Peppermint
• Do not eat lying down
• Avoid exercises after eating
• Drink a lot of fluids

Diagnosis:

It is not difficult and physical examination is enough. Please keep a very detailed information of:

• How is the feeling
• When during the day to you feel it
• Any other changes in the body observed lately.

Note:

Call your doctor immediately if:

• Frequent relapses
• Vomiting with or without blood
• Stools are black
• If burning sensation is accompanied by pain
• Difficulty in swallowing

Compiled by: Indrajit Sinha, Last updated: 02.12.07 © Medhospital Foundation

There is no generalization possible in medicine. The pages included in this website are purely educational and have been presented for information purpose only. Each section has been prepared with utmost care but should not be used as a substitute for your own physician's advice and care. Please see conditions for use.