Learn about heartburn, including its causes, symptoms, and effective prevention strategies. This overview helps in understanding how lifestyle factors influence acid reflux and ways to manage or avoid discomfort caused by this common condition.

Heartburn Explained: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Despite its name, heartburn isn't related to the heart. It's a widespread condition caused by stomach acid irritating the esophagus. Often mistaken for heart issues, symptoms include chest discomfort and a burning sensation in the upper stomach area. When these episodes happen more than twice weekly, they may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Symptoms

Signs typically involve ongoing cough, chest pain, trouble swallowing, and a burning feeling in the throat and chest.

Causes

The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) normally blocks stomach acid from entering the esophagus. When the LES relaxes excessively or weakens, acid reflux occurs. Contributing factors include large meals, heavy lifting, smoking, and weight gain.

Diagnosis

Doctors may utilize procedures like endoscopy, imaging tests, or pH monitoring to confirm diagnosis and plan treatment for persistent cases.

Prevention

Good lifestyle choices can help prevent heartburn. Eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid exercising immediately after eating—wait at least four hours. Quitting smoking and managing weight are essential to lowering risk.