The stomach needs hydrochloric acid; that naturally secretes parietal cells; to degrade proteins and carry out the digestion process. However, heartburn appears due to eating disorders and other factors, which affect the well-being of individuals. So much so that medical consultations for gastrointestinal problems, including heartburn and upset stomach, are on the rise.
In fact, it has been noted that poor eating habits, high consumption of processed food, and stress can drastically affect the walls and tissues of the digestive system. Leading to inflammation and changes in the inner lining of the stomach. At the same time, it gives rise to infections by bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori and the proliferation of cancer cells.
Heartburn is very common
Especially after the consumption of a meal that is high in fat and seasonings or the intake of alcohol. This is how this disease afflicts a large number of people worldwide; leading them to search for over-the-counter antacids; without knowing the risks to which they are being exposed. Since, the symptoms may be revealing more serious pathologies, such as gastroesophageal reflux, peptic ulcer, gastric tumors or a certain type of cancer.
Therefore, it is necessary to observe when and how often heartburn and any other associative symptoms occur. In such a way, that by seeking the guidance of a professional, a clinical picture adjusted to reality can be established, reaching a correct diagnosis. To do this, design a treatment that not only reduces symptoms, but also has a long-range curative effect.
In the same way, the causes related to the burning generated in the stomach; but that it radiates mainly from the epigastrium to the upper part of the esophagus; They are attributed to diet, the acceleration of modern life, sedentary lifestyle, the use of tight clothing and the effect of some medications. Likewise, overweight, pregnancy and large meals are also considered among the factors that cause this digestive disorder.
How can it be solved?
It is possible that changes in habits, maintaining a healthy weight and taking care of your diet, reduce discomfort and restore the connective tissue of the entire digestive system. However, if symptoms are persistent, the guidance of a healthcare professional should be sought. Basically, because according to the clinical picture and the results of the diagnostic aids; x-ray, endoscopy, and motility test; an action plan is developed.
Hence, drugs to neutralize or reduce stomach acid and anti-inflammatories, become the first option to alleviate the symptoms. Above all, because by letting the disease progress, other pathologies can develop; such as reflux or tumors; where in many opportunities it is necessary to include surgical intervention as part of the treatment.
References:
1.Laura Pérez Roncero. Basic course on digestive pathologies. Unit 2. Heartburn. Elsevier. [internet] 2016 [consultado 16 jun 2021]; 30 (2): 29-35. Available in: https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-farmacia-profesional-3-articulo-curso-basico-sobre-patologias-digestivas–X0213932416516178.
2.Ramos Contreras Juan Yerandy, Brizuela Quintanilla Raúl, Winograd Lay Rebeca, Angulo Pérez Omar. Gastric acidity, Helicobacter pylori and giardiasis in patients with ulcer syndrome. Preliminary report. Rev. Cub. Med Thousand [Internet]. Dec 2008 [citado 2021 jun 16]; 37 (4). Available in:
http://scielo.sld.cu/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0138-65572008000400010&lng=es.
- Angela Bosch. Heartburn and antacids. Offarm. [internet] 2004 [consultado 16 jun 2021]; 23 (9): 64-70. Available in: https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-offarm-4-articulo-acidez-antiacidos-13067347.