How to Recognize the Symptoms of Heartburn

Most of us have experienced heartburn from time to time. Just as losing an occasional night's sleep doesn't make you an insomniac, feeling the burning sensation of heartburn on occasion doesn't mean that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. However, heartburn symptoms can be quite painful, no matter what the cause. And frequent heartburn symptoms could indicate that a more serious condition is at work that only a doctor can recognize. That's why you should know how to recognize the symptoms of heartburn yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Understand that heartburn is caused by a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. If it doesn't close properly, partially digested food can find its way back in the esophagus, along with stomach acid. This produces the tell-tale symptoms of heartburn--a burning sensation below or behind the breastbone and in the esophagus.
2. Expect that certain medications may produce the symptoms of heartburn. These include beta blockers, some bronchodilators, certain antidepressant drugs and calcium-channel blockers prescribed to treat high blood pressure.
3. Realize that while a burning sensation in the chest is one of the primary symptoms of heartburn, this pain can also travel across the entire chest and to the throat and neck. Sometimes, a tightening feeling across the chest is also experienced.
4. Be aware that at least two-thirds of those who have frequent heartburn experience the symptoms more often at night during sleep.
5. Know that certain conditions can bring on the symptoms of heart burn such as obesity, hernia, cardiovascular problems and pregnancy.
6. Write down your specific heartburn symptoms and any circumstances that may be a contributing factor, such as the medications you are currently taking.
7. Call your doctor to schedule an appointment for a physical exam and discussion of your heartburn symptoms. Your doctor will then prescribe a course of treatment to meet your individual needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Heartburn is sometimes referred to as pyrosis.
• Heartburn is often caused by a hiatal hernia.
• Chest pain could be mistaken for heartburn when it might really be an impending heart attack. Seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms of heart attack are present or if the pain is severe.
• If you believe your heartburn symptoms are being caused by certain medications, call your doctor right away. However, don't stop taking your medications until your doctor has had a chance to assess the situation.