Heartburn can arise from 5 documented medical conditions. Understanding the clinical context helps identify urgent causes early.
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, commonly caused by H. pylori infection, prolonged NSAID use, or excessive alcohol. It can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term) and may lead to peptic ulcers if untreated.
Peptic Ulcer
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. H. pylori infection and long-term NSAID use are the most common causes. They cause burning stomach pain, especially when the stomach is empty.
GERD (Acid Reflux)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. Long-term untreated GERD can lead to esophageal damage.
Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer presents with progressive difficulty swallowing and weight loss. The two main types are squamous cell carcinoma (related to smoking and alcohol) and adenocarcinoma (related to GERD and Barrett's esophagus).
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic allergic inflammatory condition of the esophagus causing dysphagia, food impaction, and chest pain. It is managed with dietary elimination, proton pump inhibitors, or topical corticosteroids.
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