Heartburn Triggers

Some people have a naturally weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that is unable to withstand normal pressure from the stomach. But other heartburn factors also can contribute to this weakening, including:

• Eating acidic foods, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits
• Drinking alcohol
• Smoking cigarettes
• Having certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or asthma
• Taking certain medications, including asthma drugs, antibiotics, dietary supplements, and some heart medicines

Excessive pressure on the abdomen can put pressure on the LES, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus, or even the mouth. Pregnant women and overweight people are especially prone to heartburn for this reason. Even wearing tight-fitting clothes can cause pressure in the area. And because the esophageal sphincter is located in the upper part of the stomach, heartburn sufferers can experience increased heartburn symptoms when they lie down or have a full stomach.

Other Heartburn Factors

There are other factors that can contribute to heartburnHEARTBURN GLOSSARY Heartburn: A burning discomfort that is 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 esophagus. It’s also known as acid indigestion or pyrosis.. Some people have abnormal muscle or nerve function in the stomach that affects motility (the ability of the stomach muscles to contract in a normal fashion). This results in food spending more time in the stomach, increasing the chance of acid seeping back into the esophagus.

Other medical conditions may contribute to frequent heartburn. It’s important to talk to your doctor to determine if you have an underlying medical condition that may be contributing to your heartburn.