Pyrosis is a pain or burning sensation in the chest, behind the breastbone at the level of the esophagus, from top to bottom or bottom to top. This feeling can sometimes radiate to the sides, chin or arm. It can be exacerbated after meals and is quickly relieved by taking antacids. Pyrosis usually increases with leaning forward.
Pyros is usually caused by damaged changes in the esophageal surface as a result of the stomach contents backing up into the esophagus. The stomach contents may sometimes be its own stomach acid, while sometimes bile or pancreatic fluids may also be involved.
Pyrosis is burning behind the breastbone. Regurgitation (reflux) is the introduction of bitter, sour water or food into the mouth. These two
symptoms are typical of gastroesophageal reflux. Reflux can cause pyrosis by a herniation at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, due to relaxation, increases in stomach acid level or disorders in gastric motility.
Conditions that cause pyrosis are actually those that cause gastroesophageal reflux. Let’s briefly summarize the causes of pyrosis:
- Gastric-esophageal hernias caused by hiatus hernia
- Gastric-esophageal sphincter disorder
- Side effects of drug treatments
- Scleroderma involvement affecting the area
- Barret’s syndrome (lower esophageal ulcer)
- Tumors affecting the area
- Ingested corrosive chemicals
- Other causes of esophagitis
The formation of pyrosis can often accompany another pathological condition in the stomach. In cases of gastritis or ulcers, reflux-related pyrolysis may also occur. The cause of pyrosis can be understood as a result of the evaluations made by endoscopic examination. In addition, biopsy can be performed or evaluation with esophageal scintigraphy. Treatment can be planned according to the results of the evaluation.