(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Despite its misleading name, heartburn doesn’t have anything to do with impaired heart function or heart disease. But that burning sensation in your chest, just behind the breastbone, is essentially acid indigestion and can last from a few minutes to several very uncomfortable hours. Some people also say they also have a bitter taste in the back of their throat during these episodes.
Heartburn is a common condition that affects more than 60 million Americans at least once each month. While it causes discomfort, experiencing heartburn is generally not cause for alarm. But a few symptoms may indicate a more significant health condition; let’s talk through them.
Signs That It May Be More Than Just Heartburn
Abdominal pain
If severe abdominal pain or bloating accompanies your heartburn, it may signify gastritis. In extreme cases, gastritis causes chest pains, weakness and inability to tolerate food and drink. When left untreated, gastritis can cause stomach bleeding and stomach ulcers.
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Your acid reflux may be esophagitis, inflammation or irritation of the esophagus. The condition can cause damage to the lining of the esophagus if left untreated and interfere with normal function.
Constant heartburn
If you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), characterized by severe acid reflux. Heartburn is one of the common symptoms of acid reflux, explaining why the conditions and terms are often interchanged. GERD can become a problem if not treated because it can permanently damage the tissue lining of your esophagus.
Persistent hiccups
Hiccups are common and can be caused by physical and emotional factors such as stress, excitement, eating too quickly or swallowing air. Hiccups can also occur as a result of heartburn. However, persistent hiccups may be a sign of a hiatal hernia. The leading cause of a hiatal hernia is increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. Apart from persistent hiccups, the condition also causes heartburn, burping, chest pain, difficulty swallowing and shortness of breath.
Vomiting and nausea
If what you believe is heartburn is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, there’s a possibility that you are suffering from esophagitis, hiatal hernia or GERD. These conditions often involve nausea and vomiting.
Heartburn will cause discomfort, but it should pass. If you’re experiencing heartburn more than twice a week, severe pain or persistent nausea and vomiting, it may no longer be mere heartburn. Heartburn should not be excessive to the point that it interferes with your daily routine.
If you have any of the symptoms above or more questions, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.