kõrvetised

Kõrvetised, medically known as heartburn, is a burning sensation in the chest, often felt behind the breastbone. It is a common symptom that can occur when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This backward flow is called acid reflux. The burning sensation is caused by the stomach acid irritating the lining of the esophagus.

Factors that can trigger or worsen heartburn include certain foods and drinks such as fatty or spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating large meals, lying down soon after eating, obesity, smoking, and stress can also contribute. While occasional heartburn is common and usually not serious, frequent or severe heartburn can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more chronic condition.

Symptoms of heartburn typically include a burning feeling in the chest that often occurs after eating, especially at night, and may be worse when lying down or bending over. Other associated symptoms can include regurgitation of food or sour liquid into the mouth, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and chest pain that can sometimes be mistaken for heart problems.

Treatment for occasional heartburn often involves lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating. Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors are also available to neutralize or reduce stomach acid. If heartburn is persistent or severe, medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other conditions and discuss appropriate treatment options.