If you have ever felt a burning sensation just behind your breastbone, then you may have experienced heartburn.
Heartburn is a burning pain or discomfort in the upper and midchest; just behind the breastbone which may involve the neck and throat. This burning sensation usually occurs after eating and may occur at night. The burning sensation is a derivative of acid indigestion; some of the acidic contents go back up to the esophagus (the pipe that carries food from the mouth to the stomach). Some of the symptoms include a feeling of warmth or heat, burning sensation in the chest and throat, foul or acrid taste in the mouth, coughs or hiccups, a loud voice, bloating, bad breath, etc.
While occasional heartburn may rarely be a significant cause for concern as it is normal, recurrent acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease) may have serious health consequences and should not be left to linger.
Below are ten causes of heartburn to help you prevent it.
Overweight
Being overweight is a risk factor for so many health challenges. Occasional heartburn can happen to anyone but being overweight is one of the most common causes of heartburn, and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Acid reflux is a problem related to excess weight gain. Extra fat around the belly increases abdominal pressure, making stomach acid backflow more likely. Cognizance of this idea can help you take measures to maintain your weight. There is a strong link between excess weight and acid reflux. While extra pounds can increase the risk of heartburn, losing weight can spell relief for heartburn. In addition to alleviating acid reflux, losing weight can make your clothing less tight as tight clothes aggravate heartburn.
People can watch their weight by reducing daily calorie intake, reducing foods high in fats and exercising regularly. [1]
