Chronic heartburn isn't likely to find a cure from antacids or over-the-counter relief. It may be a result of GERD also known as acid reflux disease, peptic ulcers, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, gastroparesis or laryngopharyngeal reflux. In all these forms of chronic heartburn, the acid backs up and creates the pain felt in chronic heartburn. There are several symptoms besides just chest pain found in chronic heartburn. While the cause may be easier to find in some cases of chronic heartburn, it's seldom an easy syndrome to cure.
Function
The digestive system has a valve that opens and closes to allow food to descend to the stomach for digestion. This valve connects the esophagus to the stomach and it occasionally leaks. When this happens, it allows the stomach acid to flow back into esophagus. While the stomach lining is impervious to the acid, the esophagus isn't and it causes burning pain.
Identification
There are a number of reasons this valve weakens. The reasons may include the types of food eaten, smoking, the body's position after meals or innate weakness in the muscles of that area. Some causes include pressure from enlarged organs in the area, such as in pregnancy.
Chest Pain
One reason people seek emergency help for heartburn is that it often mimics a coronary. The acid burning the lining of the esophagus causes dramatic chest pain and pressure. It sends the victim immediately for help.
Chronic Sinusitis
Even though the digestive system is not working, symptoms of chronic heartburn also include upper respiratory problems like chronic sinusitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis, hoarseness, cough and complaints about the throat. A study done by Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine and James A. Haley Veterans' Medical Center, Tampa, Florida found that there was a correlation and the reason may come from the inflammation of the affected areas by gastric fluid.
Burping and Acid
One very obvious symptom of chronic heartburn is burning in the throat with a hot acidic, sour or salty taste left in the back of the throat. Occasionally the sufferer belches up small mouthfuls of acid. Frequently those who suffer from chronic heartburn have abnormally large amounts of gas.
Swallowing Difficulties
Besides the other symptoms from chronic heartburn, you might find that you have a difficult time swallowing your food. It almost feels like it sticks in the middle of your throat or creates a lump in your chest. This may come from changes in the esophagus caused by swelling or scarring.
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