Definition of Heartburn

Heartburn is a painful but common health condition. Most heartburn causes minor discomfort that isn't a sign of worse health problems. But individuals who develop chronic, debilitating heartburn should seek help from their physicians.

Symptoms

• Heartburn symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest, usually just behind the breastbone, that can radiate to the arms and neck. Heartburn pain typically worsens when bending over or lying down.

Causes

• Heartburn occurs when the sphincter muscle between the lower esophagus and the stomach weakens or abnormally relaxes. This allows stomach acid to flow up into the esophagus.

Triggers

• Foods known to trigger heartburn include fried foods, chocolate, black pepper, tomato products and vinegar. Liquids that cause heartburn include coffee, orange juice and alcoholic beverages.

Treatments

• Over-the-counter heartburn treatments include antacids, which neutralize stomach acids, and medications that decrease acid production. OTC proton pump inhibitors work by blocking acid production.

Lifestyle Changes

• Heartburn sufferers often find relief by maintaining a healthy weight, wearing loose clothing, eating smaller meals and quitting smoking. Heartburn patients shouldn't lie down within three hours of eating.