Ask a doctor - What is a heartburn and why is it called so?

Q. What is a heartburn and why is it called so?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Heartburn, also known as acid indigestion, is a burning sensation in the chest that sometimes spreads to the throat and neck. It occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus—the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The medical term for this condition is gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).

Though heartburn has nothing to do with your heart—it's not serious enough to cause cardiovascular symptoms—the name was inspired by an upper-body sensation similar to angina pectoris, which can be brought on by inadequate blood flow or spasms of a coronary artery. When someone experiences severe chest pain along with other telltale signs of heart disease (such as shortness of breath), doctors usually refer them for further testing rather than call it simple "heartburn."

Heartburn triggers vary from person-to-person but generally include eating large meals; lying down after eating; certain foods such as fatty or spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol; stress; smoking cigarettes; pregnancy; and hiatal hernia (when part of your stomach protrudes through a weak spot in your diaphragm). You can reduce or eliminate your risk factors by avoiding trigger foods and limiting portion sizes during meals. Other lifestyle changes may include losing weight if necessary, quitting smoking and reducing stress levels. Some medications relax muscle tissue in order to make it easier for GERD sufferers to digest their food properly.

When left untreated over time, chronic indigestion increases risks of developing Barrett’s Esophagus—a condition where cells lining the esophagus become abnormal due to excessive exposure from stomach acids wear away at its surface layer—which can increase risk for esophageal cancer later on in life if not treated promptly enough with medication therapy or surgery. So it’s important you talk with your doctor right away if you experience frequent episodes of heartburn so they can determine appropriate treatment options tailored specifically just for you!

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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.