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Revision as of 09:53, 3 February 2005
Heartburn, also medically referred to as pyrosis, 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.
It is caused by the failure to close of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the top of the stomach. This normally prevents stomach contents, now mixed with digestive acids, from returning into the esophagus. Peristalsis, the rhythmic wave of muscular contraction in the esophagus, normally moves food down and past the LES.
Most people have experienced occasional heartburn. However, frequent, ongoing heartburn, may indicate the more serious condition of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Treatment
The best thing to do when you have heartburn is to walk around. Do not lie down.
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