subject: Learn About The Association Of Heartburn And Back Pain [print this page] There are very few people who never experienced heartburn. Doing things like overeating, eating greasy or spicy foods, or even eating too fast can result in that terrible burn we know as heartburn. Heartburn is aptly named because is literally feels like the heart is engulfed in flames. Of course, everybody is different and their symptoms aren't the same. It could be just a slight discomfort in the chest. In some others, it means a burning, sharp pain that start in the chest and goes up until it reaches the throat. Some people get nauseous, others complain of the pain in the back.
Heartburn and back pain is not common, if it does occur, call a doctor immediately.
Heartburn is caused by stomach acid burning the esophagus. When we eat, food travels down the esophagus to the stomach and is suppose to remain there for digestion. However, there is a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter whose job is to keep food in the stomach. Certain foods and how we interact with them will cause the sphincter to relax, allowing acid into the esophagus and irritating it. It's generally believed that only food can trigger heartburn, but there are actually other health conditions that can initiate it too.
When back pain accompanies heartburn, it can be one of the symptoms of a heart attack. If you develop chills and the pain radiates out to your arms, call 911 immediately. Even physicians can't distinguish heartburn from a heart attack initially. Only through a series of test can it be determine what you may be suffering from.
Another condition that can cause you to feel both heartburn and back pain are gall stones. Antacids or watching your eating habits won't cure your problems. It has to be treated by a trained professional.
Having a hiatal hernia can include heartburn as its biggest symptom. It is a condition caused by a small hole in the diaphragm, through which a part of the stomach can come through. The problem of heartburn may not be the biggest concern for some hiatal hernia victims. They feel sharp pain in the chest and back. In most people with a hiatal hernia condition, the problem is not serious. But if there is chronic pain and a fever then it means that there's a section of the stomach in the hernia and its blood supply has stopped. Operation is often required to clear the problem.
Often pregnant women suffer with heartburn and back pain. The good news is that after nine months, the problem will go away. If you find yourself dealing with heartburn recently and aren't sure if you're pregnant, a medical examination is the best course of action.
If you're a victim of frequent, severe nightime heartburn, you try anything to alleviate the pain and discomfort:walking around, sitting standing, twisting ang turning. Your back might become sore as a result of looking for some comfort.
Many different health illnesses can bring heartburn and back pain together, but they are not the cause of each other. They are just symptoms of health conditions that can be mild or serious. The best thing to do if you feel heartburn and back pain is to call 911 as the could be a warning sign of a more serious conditon on the way. It will save your life.