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Heartburn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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heartburn

[ˈhɑːrtˌbɜrn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste in the throat or mouth. This discomfort is caused by acid reflux, which is when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Heartburn can occur after eating, particularly after consuming spicy or fatty foods. It may be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While occasional heartburn is common, frequent episodes may require medical attention.

Synonyms

acid reflux, dyspepsia, pyrosis.

Examples of usage

  • After the spicy dinner, I experienced severe heartburn.
  • She took antacids to relieve her heartburn.
  • Heartburn often worsens when lying down.
  • Avoiding trigger foods can help prevent heartburn.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health

  • It is commonly caused by eating too much, spicy foods, or lying down soon after a meal.
  • Many people experience heartburn occasionally, but if it happens often, it may indicate acid reflux disease, also known as GERD.
  • Using antacids can provide relief as they neutralize stomach acid, but persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

Cultural References

  • Heartburn is often a frequent topic in discussions about pregnancy, as many women experience it due to hormonal changes.
  • The term gained popularity in literature and film, notably in the title of Nora Ephron's book 'Heartburn', which reflects emotional and physical discomfort.

Lifestyle

  • Certain habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drinking caffeine can increase the likelihood of experiencing this condition.
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can help manage symptoms.

Science

  • The feeling occurs when stomach acid travels back into the esophagus, which can happen when the lower esophageal sphincter weakens.
  • Certain foods like tomatoes, chocolate, and citrus are known to relax this sphincter and can contribute to discomfort.

Origin of 'heartburn'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the late 1300s; it literally means a burning feeling in the heart area, though it has nothing to do with the heart itself.
  • The word 'burn' refers to the discomfort caused by stomach acid irritating the esophagus.

The term 'heartburn' dates back to the early 19th century. It essentially describes the sensation of burning that is felt in the chest area, which is caused by the regurgitation of stomach acids. The etymology breaks down into the words 'heart' and 'burn': 'heart' represents the area where the pain is felt, while 'burn' describes the painful, burning sensation. Historically, there was confusion because the symptoms felt as if they were associated with the heart, even though they stem from the digestive system. This misunderstanding continued for centuries, with various terminologies used in different cultures to describe similar sensations. The medical understanding of heartburn has evolved significantly, leading to the recognition of its association with acid reflux and GERD.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,488, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.