Heartburn is a common condition that causes discomfort and burning sensation in the chest or stomach. It occurs when acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus, a tube that connects the throat to the stomach.

This condition is also known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The severity and frequency of heartburn can vary from person to person.

Symptoms of Heartburn

The most common symptom of heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that may spread to the neck, throat, and jaw. The pain may worsen while lying down, eating, or bending over. Other symptoms of heartburn may include:.

A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Nausea
Bloating
Burping
A hoarse voice or sore throat
Coughing

Causes of Heartburn

Heartburn occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus, relaxes and allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

The factors that can trigger the relaxation of the LES and cause heartburn include:.

Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal
Eating spicy or fatty foods
Drinking alcohol or caffeine
Smoking
Pregnancy
Obesity
Stress

Treatments for Heartburn

There are several treatments available for heartburn, depending on the severity and frequency of symptoms. The following are some of the common treatments for heartburn:.

Lifestyle modifications: Making changes in diet and lifestyle can help reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and elevating the head of the bed while sleeping can help reduce heartburn symptoms.
Over-the-counter medications: Antacids, such as Tums and Rolaids, can neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn. H2 blockers, such as Pepcid and Zantac, can reduce the production of stomach acid. These medications are available over-the-counter and can provide relief from mild to moderate heartburn.
Prescription medications: If over-the-counter medications are not effective in controlling heartburn, prescription medications may be necessary. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Nexium and Prilosec, can reduce the production of stomach acid and heal the esophagus. These medications are available only with a prescription and must be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Surgery: In severe cases of heartburn, surgery may be necessary to reinforce the LES and prevent acid reflux. The most common surgical procedures for heartburn are Nissen fundoplication and LINX.

When to See a Doctor

Most cases of heartburn can be managed with lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications.

However, if heartburn symptoms persist for more than two weeks, or if they interfere with daily activities, it is important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment. In some cases, heartburn can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or Barrett’s esophagus.

Preventing Heartburn

Preventing heartburn requires making changes in diet and lifestyle that can reduce the risk of acid reflux. Some tips for preventing heartburn include:.