A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Digestive system
Digestive system
Hiatal hernia - X-ray
Hiatal hernia - X-ray
Hiatal hernia
Hiatal hernia

Heartburn
Definition:
Heartburn is a painful burning sensation in the esophagus just below the breastbone. The pain often rises in the chest and may radiate to the neck or throat.

Alternative Names:
Pyrosis; Non-cardiac chest pain

Common Causes:

The sensation of heartburn results from the backup of acid from the stomach into the esophagus, which irritates it. This can be caused by the following:
Home Care:
  • Consult a health care provider about discontinuing medications that cause heartburn (such as sedatives, calcium channel blockers - oral, and anticholinergics). Never change medication without first consulting your health care provider, as many medications can have side effects if stopped suddenly and many conditions can be worsened by inconsistent medication use.
  • Avoid coffee, alcohol, tobacco, large meals, and citrus fruits.
  • Avoid eating 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.
  • Avoid tight fitting clothing.
  • Elevate the head of the bed 4 to 6 inches.
  • Lose weight if needed. (Talk with your health care provider before beginning an exercise program if you are seriously overweight or have other health problems.)
Call your health care provider if:
  • There is vomiting of black, coffee ground-like or bloody material
  • Your stools are black in color (like tar)
  • The problem becomes frequent or is prolonged
  • You start losing weight unintentionally
  • You have difficulty swallowing (food feels stuck as it goes down)
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
Your health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions documenting heartburn may include the following:
  • Time pattern
    • When did it begin?
    • How long did it last?
    • Is this the first time you have had heartburn?
  • Diet information
    • What is your usual diet like?
    • Do you drink excessive amounts of coffee?
    • Do you drink alcohol?
    • Have you recently eaten a spicy meal?
  • Other aggravating factors
    • Do you smoke?
    • Do you wear clothing that is tight in the chest or abdomen?
    • Are you overweight?
  • Other
    • Does the pain also appear in the chest, jaw, arm, or elsewhere?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
  • Upper GI series
  • Esophageal motility and acidity lab studies
  • Esophagoscopy

Medications to reduce acid secretion may be prescribed. Any sign of bleeding will require a more involved approach to therapy.
Review Date: 11/9/2002
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D., M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com