Ask a doctor - What are the common symptoms of heartburn?

Q. What are the common symptoms of heartburn?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

The common symptoms of heartburn include:

1. Burning Sensation: A burning or warm sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone. This is the hallmark symptom of heartburn.

2. Acidic Taste: A sour or bitter taste in the mouth, which can be caused by stomach acid regurgitating into the throat.

3. Regurgitation: The sensation of stomach contents, including stomach acid, coming back up into the throat or mouth.

4. Chest Pain: Chest discomfort that can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack, though it's typically less severe and doesn't radiate to the left arm or neck.

5. Difficulty Swallowing: Some people with chronic heartburn may experience difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, due to irritation and inflammation of the esophagus.

6. Dry Cough: A persistent, dry cough may result from irritation of the throat caused by stomach acid.

7. Hoarseness: Chronic heartburn can lead to voice changes and hoarseness due to acid irritating the vocal cords.

8. Sore Throat: Frequent exposure to stomach acid can lead to a sore or irritated throat.

9. Wheezing: Wheezing or asthma-like symptoms can sometimes be exacerbated by acid reflux.

It's important to remember that not everyone with heartburn experiences all of these symptoms. Some individuals may have occasional heartburn with mild symptoms, while others may suffer from more frequent and severe episodes. If you experience chronic or severe heartburn symptoms, or if you are concerned about your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice to determine the cause and appropriate treatment options. In some cases, persistent heartburn can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.