Overview
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (a valve between the stomach and esophagus) does not close properly. While occasional heartburn is common, frequent episodes may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can lead to more serious complications if untreated.

Why It’s Important
Persistent heartburn can damage the esophagus, cause difficulty swallowing, and lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. It can also affect sleep, work, and daily comfort, making management and early recognition important. Lifestyle changes and medical treatment can reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

Quick Facts

• Affects up to 20% of adults in the U.S. regularly

• Can occur at any age, though risk increases with age, obesity, and pregnancy

• Usually acute, but chronic heartburn is a sign of GERD

• Common triggers include spicy foods, fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol, and lying down after eating

What Happens in the Body
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid moves upward into the esophagus, irritating its lining. The esophagus is not designed to handle acid, which leads to a burning sensation and sometimes inflammation (esophagitis). Over time, repeated exposure can cause scarring, narrowing, or pre-cancerous changes in the esophagus.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Burning sensation in the chest or throat, often after eating

• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth

• Regurgitation of food or liquid

• Difficulty swallowing or sensation of a lump in the throat

• Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat in some cases

Diagnosis

• Based on symptoms and medical history

• Endoscopy to examine the esophagus if symptoms are severe or persistent

• pH monitoring or esophageal manometry in certain cases

• Trial of medications (like proton pump inhibitors) to see if symptoms improve

Treatment and Management

• Lifestyle modifications: Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, maintain healthy weight, elevate head while sleeping, avoid lying down after meals

• Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

• Surgery or procedures in severe or medication-resistant cases (e.g., fundoplication)

• Most cases of occasional heartburn are manageable with lifestyle changes and medications

Risks and Complications

• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)

• Esophageal strictures (narrowing due to scarring)

• Barrett’s esophagus (pre-cancerous changes)

• Increased risk of esophageal cancer if untreated

Who Is at Risk

• People with obesity or overweight

• Pregnant individuals

• Those who smoke or drink alcohol excessively

• People with hiatal hernia or other structural abnormalities

• Individuals who eat trigger foods frequently

Related Conditions

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Esophagitis and esophageal ulcers

• Barrett’s esophagus

• Asthma or chronic cough exacerbated by acid reflux

When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care if you experience:

• Heartburn more than twice a week

• Difficulty swallowing or pain with swallowing

• Unexplained weight loss

• Vomiting blood or black stools

• Chest pain that may indicate a heart problem

Last Updated: October 2, 2025