Acid reflux and heartburn are two common conditions that many people often confuse. Although they are related, they are not the same. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between acid reflux and heartburn, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options. By understanding the difference between the two, you can better understand your own symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.
Whether you’re dealing with regular heartburn or a more chronic condition like acid reflux, it’s important to be informed about these conditions and how to manage them. First, let’s understand what they are.
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. It is often worse after eating or lying down. This can occur due to dysfunction in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the junction of the esophagus and stomach.
When the LES doesn’t work properly, stomach acid can escape into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Symptoms of heartburn can include a burning sensation in the chest, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing.
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What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn, a burning feeling in the chest, and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth. Other symptoms of acid reflux may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and persistent cough.
A more serious form of acid reflux is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When acid reflux becomes a persistent concern, GERD is diagnosed.
Hydrochloric acid in the stomach aids in the breakdown of food and protects against pathogens such as bacteria. While the esophagus is uncovered, the stomach lining is covered with a layer of mucus to protect it from strong acids.
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When the gastroesophageal sphincter malfunctions, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This causes acid reflux.
Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or smoking, can increase your risk of developing acid reflux.
The difference between acid reflux and heartburn
Acid reflux and heartburn are related conditions, but they are not the same. Here are the differences between the two:
- Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux and is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
- This discomfort is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach.
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- Acid reflux, on the other hand, is a condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, and it can cause a variety of symptoms, including heartburn.
- In addition, acid reflux can also cause other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain and persistent cough.
- Acid reflux is a condition that causes heartburn and other symptoms, while heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux that is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest.
Acid reflux is a phenomenon in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, while heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest.
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Source: pagasa.edu.vn