Heartburn or heart attack? Why frequent episodes might be a red flag

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New Delhi: Heartburn is a sensation familiar to many, that uncomfortable burning in the chest often arises after dining. While occasional heartburn may prompt little worry, frequent or chronic episodes should never be taken lightly. Beyond mere discomfort, recurring acid reflux could signify a more severe medical problem requiring prompt focus. Dr. A. Nagesh, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon and Clinical Director of MICS & Heart Transplant, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, in interaction with News9Live, spoke about the many possibilities associated with chronic heartburn, from acid reflux to heart attack.

What truly is heartburn?

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, where stomach acid flows upwards into the oesophagus. It generally surfaces as:

1. A smouldering sensation in the chest, commonly following eating or lying down.
2. A sour or bitter flavour fills the mouth.
3. A feeling of unease that may radiate to the throat.
4. While fleeting heartburn can result from spicy or rich meals, chronic heartburn—more than twice weekly—could point to an underlying issue like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

The Hidden Dangers of Chronic Heartburn

Chronic heartburn amounts to more than a mere annoyance; untreated, it risks significant health complications. Consider what it may truly signify:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: GERD is a lasting condition where stomach acid frequently irritates the oesophagus lining. With time, inflammation ensues, bringing persistent heartburn, regurgitation, and swallowing difficulty requiring medical administration to prevent further issues.
2. Barrett’s Oesophagus: Prolonged exposure to stomach acid can alter the cells lining the oesophagus, a rare condition called Barrett’s Oesophagus increasing oesophageal cancer risk.
3. Esophagitis: Repetitive acid reflux can cause esophagitis—inflammation of the oesophagus. Symptoms include pain when swallowing, chest discomfort, and in grave cases, bleeding or ulcers.
4. Heart Conditions: Sometimes, seemingly harmless heartburn could indicate an insidious cardiac issue lurking beneath the surface. Angina, which manifests as chest pain resembling heartburn, demands investigating any potential underlying heart problems.
5. Laryngeal and Respiratory Woes: Acid reflux has the potential to afflict regions other than the oesophagus, leading to a chronic cough, hoarseness, or respiratory difficulties such as asthma.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It’s imperative to consult your doctor if any of the following arise: heartburn more than biweekly, symptoms persisting despite over-the-counter remedies, difficulty swallowing or sensations of food remaining stuck, unexplained weight fluctuation or appetite alteration, chest pain especially during exertion.

Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Possibilities

Diagnosing the origin of chronic heartburn involves a thorough evaluation including endoscopy for identifying inflammation or damage, pH monitoring for confirming GERD by measuring oesophageal acid levels, and manometry for assessing oesophageal muscle function. Treatment plans depend on symptom severity and underlying causes: lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, elevating the head while sleeping, medications such as antacids, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production, surgery in extreme cases like fundoplication to reinforce the oesophageal sphincter.

Prevention Strategies for Longstanding Relief

Preventing chronic heartburn starts with adopting gastroesophageal-friendly habits:

1. Monitor Your Diet: Avoid spicy, acidic, or fatty foods and limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight can increase abdominal pressure, worsening reflux symptoms.
3. Avoid Smoking: Tobacco weakens the oesophageal sphincter, allowing acid to flow back more easily.
4. Don’t Lie Down After Eating: Wait at least two to three hours before reclining to prevent acid reflux.
5. Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps improve digestion and reduces symptoms.

The Ties Between Enduring Heartburn and Cardiac Well-Being

Doctors stress that not every chest pain stems from the heart. Nonetheless, distinguishing acid reflux from potential cardiovascular issues is crucial. Long-term heartburn sometimes cloaks or imitates heart troubles, highlighting the importance of consulting expert opinion. A thorough evaluation can ensure both gastrointestinal and circulatory health receive suitable consideration.

Conclusion

Persistent heartburn is a symptom deserving your regard. While it may seem a trivial annoyance, it could signify an underlying condition more severe. By recognising indicative signs, seeking timely medical advice, and implementing lifestyle shifts, you can safeguard your oesophageal health and overall wellness. Remember, your body’s signals are worth heeding, and addressing chronic heartburn promptly can result in improved health outcomes and peace of mind.

 Persistent heartburn is a symptom deserving your regard. While it may seem a trivial annoyance, it could signify an underlying condition more severe. By recognising indicative signs, seeking timely medical advice, and implementing lifestyle shifts, you can safeguard your oesophageal health and overall wellness.  Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare