The Truth Behind Heartburn Myths
Author: Jason Rickard

Heartburn is a medical condition manifested in an uncomfortable
sensation in the chest. This happens when acid goes back up into
a person's esophagus. Heartburn is often related to
gastroesophageal reflux disease. There are a number of medical
studies to pinpoint the causes and possible treatments for
heartburn, but there is still no single solution for this
ailment. As such, there have been a number of myths and
fallacies behind this condition.

Most people believed that particular food or drinks could cause
heartburn. This is not the case. Heartburn is caused by
biological dysfunction. Of course having a good diet is always
a good thing, but do not expect that heartburn will be gone in
a snap if you change your lifestyle or the food you eat.

Excess acid is the main cause of heartburn. This statement is
somehow incorrect. Studies show that individuals with heartburn
have normal counts of acid in their stomach. Heartburn actually
happens if acid has gone in the wrong direction as, it goes to
the esophagus instead of into the stomach.

It is common knowledge that heartburn causes harm in one's
esophagus. Actually, heartburn caused by acid reflux could also
increase the risk of asthma and chronic cough. It could also
cause sore throat and discomfort in your throat and vocal
cords.

Heartburn is not caused by stress. A lot of people blame stress
for every ailment. Although there may some amount of truth to
this, it is rare that stress is the main cause of heartburn.
But it is advised not to go through a lot of physical stress
that can cause ulcers that may in turn lead to heartburn.

Most people sit up during sleep to prevent heartburn attacks at
night. There is no need as medical experts suggest that sleeping
on one's left side is the recommended position during sleeping
time. This will allow acid to clear out faster in your
esophagus. You can also sleep on a slightly high pillow as it
allows the acid to stay in your stomach rather than being
reverted back to the esophagus, which would consequently cause
heartburn.

There is a solution to heartburn. When you drop by your doctor
for advice, he would prescribe medication. There is also over
the counter drugs that you can purchase to relieve the symptoms
of heartburn. Medication coupled with proper diet and clean
lifestyle would surely help you in dealing with heartburn.


About The Author: Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite
Shop - http://www.yourfavouriteshop.com - Offering White Noise
and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health -
http://www.hapahapa.com for more articles.