Chapter 35, Problem 8A

Summary Introduction

To write:

Why the term heartburn is an inaccurate description of this condition.

Introduction:

The digestive system breaks down the food so that nutrients can be absorbed by the body. There are three primary functions of the digestive system. The digestive system absorbs food, breaks it down so that nutrients can be absorbed and removes that cannot be digested.

Explanation of Solution

Heartburn is a sign of gastro esophageal reflux disease. It is a common condition where the acid formed in the stomach flows out into the esophagus. It is nothing to do with the heart. It causes intense pain in the lower chest. Persistent acid reflux that develops more than twice a week is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Conclusion

Thus, the term heartburn does not describe any heart problem. It is a sign of GERD.