Heartburn is a disease that is not considered as dangerous and is not permanent. Yet the symptoms associated with heartburn are so excruciatingly painful, that one who does not know of the condition will think that he or she is experiencing a heart attack. Heartburn is a condition of the stomach wherein gastric acids goes up the esophagus. This causes pain and burning sensation right behind the breastbone. What distinguishes it from a real heart attack is that it does not have the sweating and the shortness of breath associated with the heart condition. Heartburn comes with other symptoms as well. One of the primary symptoms of heartburn is nausea or the urge to vomit.
While pregnant women normally feel heartburn and nausea at the same time because of the growth of the baby inside the mother, having the two conditions if you are not pregnant or for no apparent reasons at all can be symptoms of a more serious disease. A visit to a doctor may reveal that you have gastritis, which can lead to ulcers of the stomach. Gastritis causes burning of the stomach lining and of the small intestines. The burning may become so severe, as to cause ulcerations which cannot be cured by over the counter medications. It has to be diagnosed properly first before a proper treatment is made. Such diagnosis includes x-rays, biopsy or endoscopy and other similar methods.
Gastroparesis is also another condition which has nausea and heartburn as symptoms. This is an ailment that is characterized by a slow emptying stomach and occurs in diabetics. The slow digestion may lead to fluctuating glucose levels further endangering the diabetic’s condition. In itself, heartburn is harmless. However, it could also be a symptom of another disease and when coupled with nausea, it is good if you can see a doctor immediately, as it may signal the onset of a more dangerous condition.
Knowing your risks is important for a complete cure of any disease. If you suffer from heartburn, it is wise to know what is causing it, so it does not endanger your life later.
