What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning discomfort that generally felt in the chest just behind the breastbone. The burning sensation results when harsh stomach juices come in contact with and irritate the delicate lining of the esophagusHEARTBURN GLOSSARY Esophagus: Tube connecting the mouth to the stomach; a passageway for food; part of the digestive system., the tube-like structure that connects the mouth to the stomach.

What Causes Heartburn?

Heartburn is caused when acidic stomach juices reflux, or flow backward, into the esophagus HEARTBURN GLOSSARY Esophagus: Tube connecting the mouth to the stomach; a passageway for food; part of the digestive system.. This generally occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the natural valve that keeps stomach acid in the stomach and out of the esophagus—relaxes or is not functioning properly.

When functioning normally, the LES opens like a door and allows food into the stomach but does not let it out the same way. However, at times the LES relaxes and allows stomach juices to flow upward into the esophagus. This relaxation exposes the esophagus to harsh acid from the stomach. Physicians refer to this as gastroesophageal reflux.

Why Do Stomach Juices Irritate the Esophagus?

These juices, which are produced by the stomach to help the body break down food, contain a powerful acid called hydrochloric acid. While the stomach is naturally protected from this potent acid, the esophagusHEARTBURN GLOSSARY Esophagus: Tube connecting the mouth to the stomach; a passageway for food; part of the digestive system. does not share the same protective qualities. So, if acidic stomach contents come into contact with the esophagus, its skin-like lining can be irritated or injured which can result in the sensation known as heartburn.

What Is Frequent Heartburn?

Heartburn that occurs two or more days a week is referred to as, frequent heartburn. Learn more about frequent heartburn and how it differs from occasional heartburn and persistent heartburn.

Tracking Your Heartburn Triggers

To track your triggers, download our Heartburn Symptom Diary as an Adobe^® Reader^® portable document.

Use the tracker to take notes on the foods and drinks you consumed prior to the episode, the medications you were on, and your activities, including sleep and exercise. In addition, record any treatment you took to ease heartburn and whether it worked.

If you decide to consult a healthcare practitioner, your Heartburn Symptom Diary will help that professional better understand why you experience heartburn and the kinds of treatment that most likely will ease your symptoms.

The material on this site is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis, or recommended treatments. Visit your doctor to determine the right treatment for you.