Diseases
heartburn
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). If it keeps happening, it's called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
Symptoms
- a burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and occur at night.
- pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
- a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth
Causes
- heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus).
Risk factors
- eating spicy foods, onions, citrus products.
- eating fatty or fried foods, peppermint, chocolate.
- alcohol, carbonated beverages, coffee or other caffeinated beverages
Diagnosis
- x-ray
- endoscopy
- ambulatory acid probe tests
- esophageal motility testing
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). If it keeps happening, it's called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
What are the symptoms of heartburn?
a burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and occur at night., pain that worsens when lying down or bending over, a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth
What causes heartburn?
heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach (esophagus).
Which medicines are used for heartburn?
aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, domperidone, magnesium citrate, magnesium hydroxide
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