As a matter of fact, ‘heart burn’ unlike its name has got nothing much to do with the heart. We suspect the heart function not only for the burning pain right behind the chest but also for the associated lack of appetite and stomach discomfort, unfortunately! It is the other way round! Heart burn is a vital symptom of ‘acid reflux disorder’ which is a digestive problem. Eating the right food in the right quantity at the right time and keeping a calm mind is perhaps the simplest way to keep a heart burn away.
About heart burn
A healthy mind in a healthy body….and the true key for a sound body is in the effective functioning of the digestive system. Heartburn, also known as pyrosis, cardialgia, or acid indigestion, is a burning sensation in the chest, just behind the breastbone or in the epigastrium, the upper central abdomen. The pain often rises in the chest and may radiate to the neck, throat, or angle of the jaw. Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Heartburn that is more frequent or interferes with your daily routine may be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires medical care.
Heartburn or acid reflux symptoms include chronic cough and chest pain and burning. Knowing your triggers, such as certain foods, medications, obesity, or even stress, can help prevent heartburn. Heartburn treatment may include medications, home remedies, or diet changes. Symptoms of heartburn include:
- A burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
- Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus). Normally when you swallow, a band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. Then the muscle tightens again. If the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus (acid reflux) and cause heartburn. The acid backup may be worse when you’re bent over or lying down.
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To read the full article please download our Asana Journal App or purchase Issue 158 February 2016.
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