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What Is Heart Burn?

Heartburn, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a burning feeling behind your breastbone that often stems from eating certain foods. Frequent heartburn is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

  1. Symptoms

    • The Mayo Clinic notes that heartburn-related pain tends to occur after eating and when lying down. The pain often worsens at night or when bending over. Frequent heartburn is the primary symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

    Causes

    • Heartburn is caused when excessive stomach acid enters the esophagus. Mayo Clinic doctors explain that this occurs when the muscles in your esophagus weaken or function abnormally.

    Food and Drink

    • Certain foods and drinks tend to trigger heartburn in most people. Common culprits include alcohol, coffee, chocolate, fried foods, orange juice and tomato sauce.

    Treatment

    • The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) notes that treatment most often includes avoiding trigger foods and using over-the-counter medications, such as antacids. In extreme causes, heartburn can require further testing, which can lead to surgery that reduces acid flow into the esophagus.

    Significance

    • The AGA estimates that about 40 percent of Americans experience frequent heartburn. The AGA cites research showing that nighttime heartburn often disrupts sleep, leading to a decrease in work productivity in a significant number of cases.

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