Where Does Heartburn Come From?

Heartburn is caused by problems with acid in the esophagus. It is a digestive problem characterized by a burning feeling in the chest which may last for several hours. The burning feeling may be accompanied by a bitter, sour or unpleasant taste in the mouth. According to AboutGerd.org, Nearly 20 percent of the population experiences heartburn on a weekly basis.

Causes of Heartburn

During the digestive process, the stomach uses acids to process and breakdown foods. The esophageal sphincter keeps these acids from entering the esophagus, and normally only a small amount of acid passes through the esophageal sphincter. This small amount of acid can pass through the esophagus without symptoms. However, heartburn occurs when too much acid flows through the esophageal sphincter and enters the esophagus. The esophagus can't deal with the large amounts of acid, and the burning feeling is experienced.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is another possible cause of heartburn. A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach is pushed through the muscle wall that separates the stomach and the chest, called the diaphragm. When this hernia occurs, it may cause heartburn.

Foods That May Cause Heartburn

Certain foods and drinks can cause or exacerbate heartburn. These include alcoholic or carbonated beverages, fruits that are high in citric acid, mints or chocolates, fatty foods, and spicy foods. Drugs like aspirin, some sedatives and some blood pressure medications may also cause heartburn.

Other Causes of Heartburn

Heartburn is more common in pregnant women and in people who are overweight. Lying down shortly after eating may also cause or exacerbate heartburn.

Treatment

Typically, heartburn can be treated by an over-the-counter acid blocker. The medication should generally be consumed before foods that cause heartburn, if possible. Lifestyle modifications may also be recommended, especially for persistent heartburn that develops into a condition called acid reflux disease. These lifestyle changes generally need to be permanent in order to consistently avoid heartburn, and may involve limiting the consumption of the food and drink that triggers the heartburn.

When Should You Contact A Physician

If heartburn occurs more often than once each week, lasts for more than 5 years, is severe enough to wake you at night or becomes more severe than you are used to, or if you have difficulty swallowing, you should contact a physician as these may be symptoms of a more serious illness, like Acid Reflux Disease or pre-cancerous changes to the esophagus.