Pyrosis
POSTED August 23, 2010 - 17:04 | POSTED BY Anonymous
Last edited by Rakhi on August 23, 2010 - 17:05
Pyrosis or heartburn is a burning sensation in the esophagus, the food pipe, just below the breastbone. However, despite its name, the condition has nothing to do with heart.
Causes
To aid digestion, the stomach produces about a litre of hydrochloric acid a day. As the gastrointestinal tract is coated with a thick mucous lining, the strong hydrochloric acid poses no problem. However, when the acid moves up the esophagus, an area lacking a protective lining, the acid’s corrosive nature produces a burning sensation.
While under normal circumstances, the lower esophageal sphincter, the junction between the esophagus and stomach, opens up to swallow food and closes thereafter, the problem arises when it fails to close down tightly, allowing the acid to move up.
Pregnancy, being overweight, smoking and alcohol addiction are known to weaken the esophagus valve. In addition, certain foods, such as oily stuff, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, onions and certain medications including sedatives and antidepressants make the esophagus valve to relax. Likewise, foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits and coffee trigger an extra production of stomach acid.
However, frequent episodes of pyrosis can be a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a chronic condition produced by the abnormal reflux in the esophagus.
Preventions
Eating small frequent meals could help ease gastro-esophageal reflux. Avoid lying down too soon after a meal, as this tilts the digestive juices towards the esophagus.
Tight clothing, especially around the abdomen, put pressure on the stomach forcing stomach content upwards. Eliminate foods known to precipitate an attack.
Symptoms:
The primary symptom of pyrosis is a burning sensation behind the breastbone that lasts from a few minutes to several hours. The burning sensation often rises in the chest and radiates to the neck and throat.
The burning sensation in the throat is typically a regurgitation of a hot, sour fluid into the back of the throat. While belching or burping are common, the discomfort worsens upon lying down.
Cures:
While occasional and mild pyrosiss can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications like antacids, alginates, proton-pump inhibitors, etc., chronic types would require a medical intervention.
Unlike over-the-counter drugs which symptomatic provide relief without healing the inflamed esophagus, a result of damage caused by acids, frequent and persistent pyrosiss are usually treated with prescription medication and sometimes surgery.
Besides drugs both over-the-counter and prescription, adopting certain self-care measures like controlling the weight and a regular exercise regime are sure to help.
