| Sunday, July 18, 2004 |
| HEARTBURN |
"Heartburn is the one of the most common gastrointestinal illness in the United States. Fortunately, lifestyle changes and treatments can help get rid of the pain for good."Paulo Pacheco, MD ( clinical assistant professor ofmedicine, New york University School of Medicine)
WHAT IS IT?
this is characterized by a burning discomfort in the chest or throat, heartburn affects an estimated 61 million Americans. it occurs when the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach does not close properly, allowing stomach acids to leak back into the esophagus. indigestion usually describes heartburn experienced directly after meals.
CAUSES:
*** eating spicy, acidic, fried or fatty foods.
*** drinking caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic beverages.
*** consuming large meals especially before bedtime.
*** eating too quickly.
*** stress or trauma.
*** smoking.
*** obesity.
*** medications such as antidepressants,and some antibiotics NSAIDs.
*** pregnancy.
*** hiatal hernia.
SYMPTOMS:
although symptoms can differ from person to person, most people experience burning sensation that begins in the chest, then spreads into the throat causing a sour or bitter taste. other symptoms include nausea, belching, sore throat, hoarseness, bad breath, or difficulty swallowing.
WHEN IT'S SERIOUS:
severe or frequent heartburn can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) left untreated, GERD can lead to inflammation, narrowing or ulcers of the esophagus. it can also increase your risk for pulmonary fibrosis abd esophageal cancer. if you suspect you have GERD, see your doctor to determine the best course of treament.
heart attack symptoms can mimic those heartburn. if pain spreads to the upper body, is accompanied by weakness or dizziness, or is triggered by physical activity, seek immediate medical attention.
PREVENTION:
*** LIMIT FOODS AND BEVERAGES THAT CAUSE SYMPTOMS OR INTERFERE WITH ACID FLOW.
*** DECREASE PORTION SIZES AND EAT MORE SLOWLY.
*** EAT MEALS AT LEAST THREE HOURS BEFORE LYING DOWN.
*** WEAR LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING.
*** STOP SMOKING.
*** LOOSE WEIGHT.
*** EXERCISE REGULARLY.
want to know more?visit the NATIONAL HEARTBURN ALLIANCE AT www.heartburnalliance.org or read: Living with Chronic Heartburn: The Conmplete Health Guide to Acid Reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease by:Paulo Pacheco, MD and Marilyn Olsen. |
| posted by infraternam meam @ 3:44 AM |
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Name: infraternam meam
Home: Chicago, United States
About Me: I am now at the prime of my life
and have been married for the past 25 years.
Sickly at times, but wants to see the elixir vita,
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