Acute Heartburn and Hyperacidity

The lower oesophageal sphincter helps control the movement of food from the oesophagus to the stomach. Episodes of temporary lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation are normal, but when they occur frequently they allow reflux of gastric contents back into the oesophagus.1

Heartburn (also known as acid reflux) is a digestive issue that occurs when stomach acid moves upwards into the oesophagus.1,2 It is defined as a burning or painful sensation that rises from the stomach or lower chest and radiates toward the neck or throat.1,2

Other symptoms may include:12

  • A sour or bitter taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation)
  • Hoarseness or a cough
  • Halitosis


Symptoms often occur shortly after a meal or when bending over or lying down.2,3

Research suggests that over 50% of the general population may suffer from heartburn, and one-third report a feeling of acidic juices coming back up their oesophagus (acid regurgitation or reflux) within the last 7 days.1,4

Heartburn has a significant negative impact on health-related quality of life, especially if the symptoms occur at night.5 Up to 60% of sufferers report detrimental effects on sleep, mood, general well-being, and the ability to eat and drink.5 They also report it has a negative effect on their productivity the next day.5

The following factors can contribute to acid regurgitation and increase the risk of experiencing heartburn:6

  • Eating certain foods, especially spicy and fatty foods or citrus fruits
  • Drinking certain beverages, like alcohol, fizzy drinks, caffeinated drinks or citrus juices
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Stress
  • Being overweight
  • Taking certain medications


Lifestyle changes and certain medication are used to treat this condition, these include antacids, H2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s).5,6

References
1.

Zuckerman MJ, Carrion AF. Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease. BMJ Best Practice. 20 Apr 2021

2.

Patient Information from BMJ: Heartburn. BMJ Best Practice. 14 Jul 2020

3.

Rensburg KV. Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD). 1. 2010;77(10):34-37

4.

Cohen E, Bolus R, Khanna D, et al. GERD Symptoms in the General Population: Prevalence and Severity Versus Care-seeking Patients. Dig Dis Sci. 2014;59(10):2488-2496. doi:10.1007/s10620-014-3181-8

5.

Kushner PR. Role of the Primary Care Provider in the Diagnosis and Management of Heartburn. Current Medical Research and Opinion. 2010;26(4):759-765. doi:10.1185/03007990903553812

6.

Oliveria SA, Christos PJ, Talley NJ, et al. Heartburn Risk Factors, Knowledge, and Prevention Strategies: A Population-based Survey of Individuals with Heartburn. Arch Intern Med. 1999;159(14):1592-1598. doi:10.1001/archinte.159.14.1592

7.

Sandoz SA (Pty) Ltd. Professional Information. Sep 2018