Heartburn and persistent burps are linked to cancer. A burp is nothing but gas. When we
eat or drink, we also swallow air. These gases need to get out. That's where burping comes
in. But, if you burp frequently and persistently or you have stomach juice flow back to the
throat, you should see a doctor immediately. Acid indigestion (or heartburn) at late stage
may lead to cancer!!
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Persistant Burping updated on APRIL 7, 2006
The gastric fluid contains hydrochloric acid, a powerful acid, to help
the body break down food. Our stomach is naturally protected from
this fluid while our esophagus isn't. When the acidic stomach
contents come into contact with the esophagus, the contents can
irritate or even injury the skin-like lining and result in the sensation
known as heartburn.
Heartburn is sometimes called acid indigestion. In addition to
heartburn, symptoms of acid reflux may include persistent sore
throat, hoarseness, chronic cough, asthma, heart-like chest pain
and a feeling of a lump in the throat. It may also include the
sensation of food or liquid coming up into the throat or mouth
(regurgitation), especially when bending over or lying down. These
symptoms may be accompanied by a bitter or acid taste.
Heartburn and reflux are very common, with 10 percent of the
population experiencing these symptoms at least once a week.
There are two types of heartburn: Episodic and Frequent
heartburn. Episodic heartburn is a common type of heartburn.
These infrequent bouts of heartburn are often predictable and are
usually manageable through lifestyle adjustments. Frequent
heartburn is heartburn that occurs two or more days a week. It is
estimated that more than 50 million adult Americans suffer from
frequent heartburn.
Heartburn occurs when the gastric fluid refluxes or flows backward
into the esophagus. This generally occurs when the lower
esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes or is not functioning properly
(i.e. gastroesophageal reflux; GERD). Lifestyle and dietary factors
can contribute to heartburn: frequent eating before bedtime, large
portions and acidic, fatty or spicy foods, drinking too much
carbonated or alcoholic beverages, lying down or bending over
especially after meals. Other reasons include pregnancy, certain
medications, being overweight, smoking, hectic lifestyle and
wearing restrictive clothing.
Acid reflux can sometimes result esophagitis, i.e. an inflammation
of the esophagus. In addition, a narrowing or partial closure
(stricture) of the lower esophagus may occur. It may also lead to
Barret's esophagus, a change in the cells of the tissue lining the
bottom of the esophagus. This can increase the chance of
developing cancer. It may also cause lung problems when the
gastric fluid overflows into the breathing tubes during the reflux.
Many heartburn sufferers significantly reduce their burping by
avoiding the trigger foods and behaviors. Here are a few
reminders to help you better control burping:
[1] Try to stay on a regular schedule and eat smaller portions. Avoid
eating meals and snacks at least 2-3 hours before lying down.
[2] Avoid or minimize intake of high-fat foods and foods that are
particularly spicy.
[3] Limit consumption of caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic
beverages.
[4] Stop or decrease smoking.
[5] Exercise
[6] Drink and eat slowly. Chew well.
When Lifestyle Adjustments Are Not Enough
Avoiding heartburn triggers can help, but if lifestyle adjustments are
not enough, the next line of defense is medications: antacids,
H2-blocker.
Antacids neutralize stomach acid and can be taken as needed to
relieve most heartburn symptoms quickly. H2-blockers decrease
stomach acid output. They do not work as quickly as antacids but
are far more effective because they prevent acid reflux for many
hours at a time.
There are also medication to tighten the esophagus/stomach
barrier or improve stomach emptying to decrease reflux.
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The above information is for your reference only. It does not intend
to replace your medical doctor's advise. You should consult your
medical doctor for any health issues.