Should we just ignore heartburns?

1. 65

   Anjiliposted 11 years ago

   Should we just ignore heartburns?
   
   Do heart burns portend ill health in our bodies?

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2. 69

   cloverleaffarmposted 11 years ago

   Heartburn can be due to diet, but it can also be the sign of other illnesses. Heartburn that doesn't go away can erode the lining of the esophagus. Consistent heartburn should be checked by a doctor to rule out more serious issues.

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3. 68

   TDAPharmposted 11 years ago

   Continuous heartburn that requires an individual to seek treatment may be a sign of gastrointestinal issues. If a patient finds themselves taking tums or pepto daily, then there is some concern. This could be due to gastroesophageal reflux, or possible an ulcer. These may require professional work up and medical treatment. This could include adjustments in diet or medication.

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4. 61

   Dubuquedogtrainerposted 11 years ago

   No. "Heartburn" is a symptom of underlying disease and should be evaluated by a medical professional for a diagnosis and treatment. It is sometimes mistaken for cardiac disease and so should always be evaluated promptly, especially heartburn that does not respond to antacids.

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      TDAPharmposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      That is an excellent point to make and very valid. Sometimes its hard for patients to differentiate between chest pains and acid reflux. I've see patients who would treat with antacids over night only to show up in the ER the next day.

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      Dubuquedogtrainerposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you. My previous profession was critical care nursing and I volunteered as a CPR and first aid instructor for about 20 years. Inferior wall myocardial infarction (heart attack) is often characterized by "indigestion."

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      TDAPharmposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I am more of an internal medicine kind of guy. I don't mind ICU, MICU, or CSICU. But I feel more at home on the general floor. Send me a message of your experiences! I would be glad to hear them.

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   dashingclaireposted 11 years ago

   Heart and burn as one word can never be good. Heartburn - not everyone with acid reflux has heartburn and not everyone with heartburn has acid reflux. The symptom of heartburn can also be caused by other  intestinal motility problems. Cardiac problems can also mimic heartburn and you should not confuse the two. Your heart should never be described as burning physically in your chest.

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