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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What is heartburn?

    Related Topic
    Heartburn/GORD
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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, also known as acid reflux, is a painful and burning sensation in the oesophagus, just behind the breastbone usually associated with regurgitation of gastric acid (gastric reflux). The pain often rises in the chest and may radiate to the neck, throat, or angle of the jaw. Heartburn is a major symptom of gastro oesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as GERD; acid reflux is also identified as one of the causes of chronic cough, and may even mimic asthma. Despite its name, heartburn actually has nothing to do with the heart; it is so called because of a burning sensation near to where the heart is located – although some heart problems may give rise to a similar burning sensation.

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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

    Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) is commonly known  as reflux or heartburn. GORD results  from the faulty control of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) causing the stomach acid to splash back into the oesophagus, which results in the discomfort and pain known as ‘heartburn’ . 

    Certain foods and lifestyle choices  can increase the back-up of stomach acid, making symptoms worse. If you have symptoms of heartburn, avoiding certain foods can help decrease the burning you feel. Making lifestyle changes can also help.

    The symptoms of heartburn can be similar to those of other health conditions so also if you experience vomiting, anemia, unplanned weight loss, chest pain or shortness of breath you should see your GP immediately.

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

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  • Nikki Martin

    Speech Pathologist

    I have over 13 years experience in adult Speech Pathology and specialise in voice and swallowing problems/cancers of the face and throat. I work very … View Profile

    Heartburn is the stomach contents refluxing (going back up) up into the oesphagus (foodpipe) and causing irritation ie. heartburn.

    Nikki Martin
    Speech Pathologist

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