Question

Why has Mr. Gonzalez been admitted for heartburn?

1) Because his cardiac enzymes were borderline
2) Because he has intermittent chest pain with substernal burning
3) Because his chest pain radiates to his mid-back
4) Because his heartburn has become worse since he started treatment for his URI

Answer 1

Mr. Gonzalez was admitted for heartburn because of intermittent chest pain with substernal burning, indicating symptoms of GERD, which requires proper medical attention especially when worsened by medication for other conditions like a URI.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mr. Gonzalez has likely been admitted for heartburn due to option 2: intermittent chest pain with substernal burning. This symptom is characteristic of heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a painful burning sensation. The backup of acid is often due to a weak or inappropriately relaxing sphincter between the stomach and esophagus. Mr. Gonzalez's symptoms may have been exacerbated by his recent upper respiratory infection (URI) treatment, which is a common occurrence as some medications may contribute to GERD symptoms.

Heartburn can often be improved with dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce the amount and acidity of stomach contents refluxing into the esophagus. In more severe or persistent cases like Mr. Gonzalez's, medical intervention might become necessary, especially when heartburn worsens, as it can lead to potential damage to the esophagus.