^{Designed in Canva}

---

The word "heartburn" often makes people feel uneasy just hearing it. The name itself can cause confusion, with many assuming it's a serious heart-related issue. But in reality, it's quite the opposite. It's actually a very common problem. Some of you might already be familiar with it, but for those who aren't, let me break it down a bit.

Let me start with the name. It’s called "heartburn" because the burning sensation and discomfort are usually felt in the chest area, near the heart. This leads people to think it's related to the heart, but in fact, it’s a problem with the digestive system.

We’ve all consumed something at some point in our lives which felt like it was a bit "heavy", be it an additional plate of biryani or two more slices of pizza. If you have ever felt a little burning in the chest after taking a meal, as it feels like something is rising up in the throat, then that is heartburn. What's happening is your food is trying to come back up from your stomach.

Now let me explain it a little bit scientifically but first it's important to understand a bit about our stomach's structure. There's a small muscle between our stomach and esophagus (the tube that food travels down to reach our stomach) called the "lower esophageal sphincter." This sphincter opens temporarily when you eat and then closes again. But sometimes, it doesn't close properly, or it's not as tight as it should be, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. That's what causes heartburn.

_{Screenshot Source}

The causes of heartburn are many. For some people, such as myself, coffee can also be a trigger. That is why I prefer tea over coffee. Another big cause is overeating. If you overeat, you exert pressure on the stomach and this forces the stomach acid up. It becomes even worse if you lie down soon after eating or if you bend over to do something, for this will force the acid to flow back to the esophagus.

So, how can you avoid heartburn? The first thing you should do is try to control your diet. Avoid heavy and spicy foods, and try to keep your portions in check—smaller meals if possible. Avoid lying down immediately after eating; try to go for a short 5-minute walk instead, and if you must lie down, do so after a little while. If you are obese, it will also be beneficial to try to lose a little weight too.

There’s an over-the-counter medicine I know of called Mucaine Syrup. We always have it at home, and each time anyone of us experiences acidity after taking a meal, we use it.

^{Source: Author's own image}

Syrup	Price in PKR	Price in STEEM
Mucaine 120ml	100	2

To conclude, I'd like to say that Heartburn is a common digestive issue, but it's not something to ignore. Small changes in your lifestyle and diet can help prevent it. If it becomes more severe, don't hesitate to consult a doctor. Take care of your health, friends, because Jaan Hai To Jahaan Hai! (if you have your health, you have everything!)

---

I trust that you found the information in my article to be valuable. 😊

---

^{I would like to invite @patjewell, @lhorgic, @malikusman1, @irawandedy, @sahmie, @aaliarubab and @yancar to join this contest through this link, if they have not already taken part in it.}

---

^{Author: @waqarahmadshah | Date: 20-Aug-2024 | Achievement 1}