Heartburn is a disease that is usually misunderstood because of its name. Contrary to its name, this disease does not originate from the heart. Some heart or cardiac conditions may lead to symptoms that mimic or show heartburn-like symptoms. How then can one explain the processes and mechanisms behind this disorder? To truly understand the pathophysiology of heartburn, let us see the normal functions of the gastrointestinal part where heartburn attacks.
Normal Gastroesophageal Function
When we eat, the food we chew is directed to the throat or the pharynx. The food then enters a long and hollow tube that we call the esophagus. The esophagus terminates to enter the stomach. However, there is a valve separating these two structures that serves as a gateway for food, acids and other stomach contents to prevent them from backing up or reentering the esophagus. In a normal individual, this valve serves its functions well.
Heartburn Disease Process
In heartburn, this valve ceases to function properly such that stomach acids can back up against the dysfunctional valve. The stomach acids brush up against the walls of the esophagus and cause the irritating discomfort in the chest region. This makes people call such phenomenon as heartburn. The cause is not actually the heart but rather the stomach acids that irritate the esophageal wall.
Causes of Heartburn and Associated Symptoms
In understanding the heartburn pathophysiology, it is important to know the triggers or causes. Heartburn is usually triggered by the food we eat. When we eat acid-inducing foods, they increase the stomach’s acidity and make you more vulnerable to heartburn. People usually experience heartburn after a meal and usually at nighttime. After a meal, the stomach produces the acids to aid in digestion. This makes it a very appropriate time for heartburn symptoms to show. At night and while sleeping, the flat position that we assume makes it easier for the stomach acids to rise to the esophageal area. There are also certain conditions that predispose a person to experience heartburn. An example of which is heartburn that occurs in pregnancy. The rise in the hormone progesterone loosens the valve making it easier for stomach acids to rise.
