Heartburn
Introduction Heartburn is a form of dyspepsia, or more formally known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . Symptoms are caused when there is reflux of gastric contents, particularly acid, into the oesophagus, which irritate the sensitive mucosal surface (esophagitis). Symptoms Patients will often describe the symptoms of heartburn - typically a burning/pain felt in the stomach, passing upwards behind the breastbone (retrosternally). Regurgitation is defined as the perception of flow or refluxed gastric content into the mouth or hypopharynx. It is often brought on by bending or lying down, which make leakage of acid up the oesophagus more likely. Aggravating Factors Alcohol, caffeine, smoking, overweight, stress, a large meal and medications are known to aggravate heartburn. Moreover, half of all pregnant women are estimated to suffer from heartburn (often begins in mid-to-late pregnancy). Referral Referral for further investigation is recommended: In patients aged <18 y...