HEARTBURN, CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND PREVENTION

 Heartburn is a burning or painful sensation in the oesophagus caused by reflux of the stomach contents.

The hydrochloric acid in the stomach makes the content acid and therefore irritating to the oesophagus.

WHY CONTENTS FLOW BACK TO OESOPHAGUS.

Because the cardiac sphincter not closed completely.

FOOD WHICH RESULT TO INCOMPLETE CLOSING CARDIAC SPHINCTER.

Below is a list of food which brings about the incomplete closing of muscle

• Pepper
• Citrus fruits
• Fatty foods
• Spicy food
• Caffeine
• Sugary foods

CAUSES OF HEARTBURN.

• Eating food with too much fats which cause food to sty long enough to stomach resulting into secretion of more acid which reflux and cause irritation in the oesophagus.
• Eating late in the night.
• Taking large portion of food just before bed
• Eating very hot or cold foods 
• Alcoholism
• Pressure on the stomach due to pregnancy.
• Obesity
• Stress

SYMPTOMS OF HEARTBURN

• A burning or irritating sensation in the chest or throat.
• A sour tastr in thr mouth.
• Excessive belching 
• Difficult swallowing.
• Hoarseness or loss of voice.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF HEARTBURN.

• Minimize intakes of foods that can cause heartburn such as too much fatty or sugary foods.
• Avoid use of alcohol, caffeine, tobacco and recreational drugs.
• Avoid obesity and reduce body weight if you are obese.
• Do not eat very hot or very cold foods.
• Do not eat largr amount of food just before going to bed.
• Avoid late night meals or engaging into vigorous body exercises immediately after eating.
• Avoid wearing tight clothes that put pressure on the stomach.
• Take measure to reduce stress.
• Drink enough water to dilute the acid in the stomach.
• Change diet if you have a history of being affected by certain types of foods.