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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What are the symptoms of heartburn?

    Related Topic
    Heartburn/GORD
    • 2 answers
    • Arlene Normand
    • Julie Markoska
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    Arlene Normand

    Dietitian

    Arlene is a registered practising dietitian, with a private practice in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, and has built a strong business over the last … View Profile

    Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest. The sensation may spread up into the throat, jaw, arms, or back. That's why heartburn is often mistaken for chest pain due to a heart attack. Heartburn (often called acid indigestion) typically occurs 30-60 minutes after meals. The pain is worse when lying down, bending forward, and straining to pass stools. The pain is relieved by standing upright, swallowing saliva or water, or by taking antacids. If small amounts of stomach acid or food travel beyond the  oesophagus and up into the mouth, the person may experience bitter a or sour taste (regurgitation). Regurgitation is common after meals, especially if the person is lying down, bending over, or straining. Stomach acid can also affect the respiratory tract, causing asthma, hoarseness, chronic cough, sore throat, or tooth damage (acid eats the enamel on teeth). The person may feel as if he or she has a lump in the throat. If the acid reflux continues for long periods of time, the oesophagus can become damaged. The person may have difficulty swallowing. In more serious cases, weight loss and dehydration occur. Very rarely, the oesophagus may bleed or tear completely because it is so damaged. In severe cases, the person may vomit blood or have small amounts of blood in bowel movements. If you do have continual reflux you should consult your doctor.
     

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    Julie Markoska

    Dietitian, Nutritionist

    I am a Sydney based Accredited Nutritionist and Accredited Practising Dietitian recognised by the Dietitians Association of Australia.I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in … View Profile

    Common symptoms of GORD

    ·       Burning sensation from the upper abdomen to the neck
    ·       Pain in the upper abdomen and chest
    ·       Belching
    ·       Nausea
    ·       Acid taste in the mouth
    ·       Stomach distension (feeling swollen)

    Symptoms are often worse after a meal and may come and go.
     

    Other symptoms of GORD

    ·       Persistent cough, particularly at night, due to refluxed acid irritating the windpipe
    ·       Hoarse voice
    ·       Asthma symptoms from acid reflux
    ·       Severe chest pain

    Julie Markoska
    Accredited Practising Dietitian & Nutritionist
    http://www.juliemarkoska.com.au/

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