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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Heartburn and Indigestion?

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Heartburn and indigestion are different conditions that can occur separately or simultaneously. They have distinct symptoms and causes, but they can sometimes be confused due to their similarities. Here are the key differences between heartburn and indigestion:

Heartburn:

  • Defined as a substernal burning sensation that may extend towards the neck or base of the throat.
  • Primarily affects the chest and esophageal areas.
  • Caused by stomach acid traveling back up the esophagus due to a weak or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter.
  • Common symptoms include burning sensation in the chest, painful swallowing, and acid regurgitation.
  • Can be triggered by consuming large meals, high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated beverages.

Indigestion:

  • A term used to describe a disorder of the digestive processes.
  • Primarily affects the abdominal area.
  • Can cause upper abdominal bloating, fullness, or discomfort; belching and flatulence; and, less commonly, a bad taste in the mouth, a coated tongue, fatigue, somnolence, or headache.
  • Common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, feeling full after not eating much, or feeling uncomfortable after eating.
  • Can be triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, consuming high-fat or spicy foods, drinking too much caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated beverages, smoking, anxiety, and taking certain medications.

While both conditions can be managed through lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications, it is essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment if symptoms persist or worsen.

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  • What is the Difference Between Heartburn and Indigestion?
  • Comparative Table: Heartburn vs Indigestion

    • Comparative Table: Heartburn vs Indigestion

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between heartburn and indigestion:

    Symptom Heartburn Indigestion
    Definition A burning sensation in the chest due to acid from the stomach traveling up the esophagus A group of symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal system, including pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, feeling full after not eating much, or feeling uncomfortable after eating
    Medical Term None Dyspepsia
    Primary Cause Acid reflux Various factors, such as overeating, certain foods, stress, and anxiety
    Other Symptoms None Upper abdominal bloating, fullness, or discomfort; belching and flatulence; (less commonly) bad taste in the mouth, coated tongue, fatigue, somnolence, or headache
    Treatment Addressing the cause of acid reflux, such as achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding certain foods, and managing stress levels Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding large meals, certain foods that may trigger indigestion symptoms, getting enough sleep, exercising, managing stress levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and others

    If symptoms are severe, do not improve, or get worse, it is essential to consult a doctor.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.