Heartburn, or acidic indigestion, is defined as a burning sensation in the middle of the chest or higher in the middle of the abdomen, a condition so disturbing that it may disrupt the course of daily life.
Although the condition may be caused by stomach acid reflux, it may become more serious, as research shows that it can increase the risk of a deadly disease that is difficult to detect.
While heartburn attacks do not usually cause concern, they should not be ignored if they are frequent, they are not only treatable but can protect us from severe consequences.
A study of half a million adults found that those with heartburn are more than twice as likely to develop esophageal or larynx cancer in their lifetime.
About 17% of these cancers in people aged 50 to 70 may be related to acid reflux.
High risks were observed among people regardless of their gender, whether they were smoking or drinking, and other risk factors for certain cancers.
Heartburn is not only a possible cause of cancer, but also a major symptom of esophageal cancer.
The disease can be concealed because those who are accustomed to living with heartburn may not think that it may be a symptom of another more serious health condition.
Signs you shouldn't ignore
The esophagus is a hollow tube that transfers food and liquid from the mouth to the stomach. The NHS says the main symptoms of esophageal cancer are extremely difficult to detect. They are very common in everyday life, but we may ignore them, especially if we are used to acid reflux.
The board warned: "It is important to get tested by a GP if the symptoms change, worsen or you don't feel normal."
Symptoms include:
- Heartburn
- Swallowing problems
- Feeling sick
- Indigestion
- Burping too much
The expanded list of possible symptoms includes:
- Husky cough does not improve
- Anorexia or weight loss
- Feeling tired
- chest pain
Is your heartburn serious?
Intestinal acidity that continues to occur is called GERD. In short, the situation occurs because the muscles that allow the flow of food from the esophagus to the stomach do not function properly.
Stomach acid manages to leak into the esophagus where it causes irritation. Anyone can be infected but is more likely to be diagnosed in persons with obesity, pregnant women, smokers or on certain medications. Therefore, doctors are always advised to quit cigarettes and lose weight (if necessary).
- Experts also recommend avoiding foods and drinks that make the problem worse, such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol and spices.
- Oesophageal reflux can be treated with drugs such as proton pump inhibitors prescribed by the GP.
- The main symptoms are burning pain in the chest, disturbing taste in the mouth, hiccups or burps, hoarse sound, bad breath or bloating.
This tends to be worse after eating, especially if you're sitting or lying down.
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