Heartburn is caused by a problem with the upper digestive system. It may happen when your stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Since your esophagus doesn’t have the same protective lining your stomach does, the acid can cause a burning sensation in your chest. The pain gets worse when you lie down or bend over; it can last minutes or linger for a few hours. Heartburn has nothing to do with your heart although the symptoms are felt in a similar area. Other common symptoms include: burping and/or bloating; an acidic or bitter taste in the back of your throat; and feeling like food is ‘sticking’ in your chest or throat.
The basic cause of heartburn is when your lower esophageal sphincter (LES) becomes weakened or relaxes abnormally; the LES is the valve that keeps stomach acids where they belong. Some medications can cause heartburn by relaxing your LES. Certain foods, such as chocolate and mint, appear to relax your LES. Other substances, such as coffee and beer, increase the amount of acid your stomach produces. Smoking relaxes the LES, too.
Certain habits that can trigger a hearburn include: eating large meals or eating too fast; laying down right after meals; and eating close to bedtime. When eating out, try to keep your portions under control. Activities that put pressure on the stomach–such as frequent bending over, wearing tight clothes, lifting, clenching your abs, and exercising soon after eating–can be a heartburn cause. Sleeping with your head slightly raised may help. Lose weight. And find ways to reduce stress in your life: breathe deeply, prioritize and delegate, and remember to laugh.
Frequent heartburn is heartburn that occurs two or more times a week. And frequent heartburn sufferers can now treat their symptoms effectively with an over-the-counter (OTC) antacid. Contact your health care professional if your heartburn often occurs more than once a week. If your persistent heartburn is unresponsive to prescription and over-the-counter medications, you may be suffering from a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. GERD is a chronic condition characterized by irritation or inflammation of the esophagus. It is caused by the reflux, or backflow, of stomach acids into the esophagus. If left untreated, GERD can cause or contribute to a wide range of more serious health issues.
