Heartburn is a common digestive problem, and many people experience it from time to time. The symptoms of heartburn include a burning sensation in the chest, throat, and neck. The sensation is usually worse after eating or when lying down.

While heartburn can occur due to various reasons, it is most commonly the result of acid reflux. Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. Understanding the causes of stomach heartburn can help prevent the condition.

Eating Spicy Foods

Spicy foods such as chili peppers and curries, can cause heartburn to flare-up. The spices in these foods promote the production of stomach acid, which can flow back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Eating spicy foods in moderation can help you avoid heartburn.

Large Meals

Overeating or having a large meal can put pressure on your stomach and cause heartburn. The pressure causes stomach acid to move upward in the esophagus, leading to heartburn.

To avoid this, eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals. This will help prevent heartburn.

Sleepting Flat on Your Back or Stomach

Sleeping flat on your back or stomach puts pressure on the stomach, which increases the likelihood of acid reflux. Try propping up yourself with pillows or sleeping on your left side, which can help reduce the risk of heartburn while sleeping.

Carbonated Drinks and Alcohol

Carbonated drinks, such as soda or sparkling water, contain carbon dioxide, which can cause heartburn by distending the stomach. Alcohol can also relax the musculature of the esophagus causing acid reflux.

Limiting your intake of these beverages can help you avoid heartburn.

Cigarette Smoking

Cigarette smoking is harmful to health and can lead to various health complications, including gastrointestinal disorders such as heartburn. Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can contribute to acid reflux.

Related Article 30 Reasons for Heartburn in the Stomach

Quitting smoking can help prevent heartburn.

Obesity

Obesity can cause excess pressure on the stomach, which can lead to acid reflux and heartburn. Maintaining a healthy weight by exercising regularly and following a balanced diet can prevent heartburn caused by obesity.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause heartburn due to hormonal changes that affect the muscles and digestion. The growing fetus also puts pressure on the stomach.

Avoiding large meals, not lying down after eating, and eating smaller and more frequent meals can help reduce heartburn during pregnancy.

Medications

Some medications, such as aspirin, can cause heartburn. The anti-inflammatory properties of aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and cause heartburn.

Other medications, such as pain relievers and blood pressure medicines, may also cause heartburn as a side effect. If you experience heartburn after taking medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach protrudes into the chest through a hole in the diaphragm. This can cause acid reflux and heartburn.

If you have a hiatal hernia, your doctor may recommend losing weight, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down after eating to prevent heartburn.

Avoid Foods that Trigger Heartburn

Knowing what foods or drinks trigger your heartburn and avoiding them can be very helpful in preventing a heartburn flare-up. Common foods that are known to cause heartburn are acidic foods and drinks, such as tomatoes, citrus fruit, and coffee.

High-fat foods, chocolate, and peppermint can also cause heartburn.