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Heartburn symptoms, for the infrequent sufferer, are often triggered by certain foods. Mild or occasional acid reflux isn’t usually cause for concern. While it may cause temporary discomfort, it doesn’t present any major health risks. People who experience acid reflux more than twice.
Heartburn, also known as acid indigestion, is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or acid reflux. You may experience GERD when acid contents in your stomach back up into your esophagus. This occurs when a muscle at the end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), fails to operate properly. The LES opens when swallowing to allow the passage of food to the stomach and then closes to prevent food juices from returning, or refluxing, back into the esophagus.
The cause of heartburn is unknown, but certain factors may contribute to the condition. They include:
- Specific foods such as garlic, spicy foods and fried foods
- Smoking
- Caffeine
- Pregnancy
- Being overweight
- Alcohol
- Certain medications, such as nitrates and some muscle relaxants
A condition known as hiatal hernia also may contribute to heartburn. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach is above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. The diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from coming up into the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, it is easier for the acid to come up.
Occasional heartburn doesn't mean you have GERD. Ten percent of the population experiences heartburn and other symptoms of GERD at least once a week. But heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may be considered GERD, which can lead to more serious health problems such as inflammation of the esophagus or Barrett's esophagus and lung problems.
Our Approach to Heartburn
Medications and changes to diet and lifestyle can often relieve heartburn symptoms. If these options fail, however, a surgery called fundoplication can provide a cure. UCSF gastrointestinal surgeons usually perform this as a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, inserting tiny instruments and a miniature camera through several small incisions.
UCSF surgeons helped pioneer laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, and they perform many of these procedures each year. Compared with traditional open surgery, minimally invasive surgery has significant benefits for patients, including a faster recovery, lower risk of infection, and less pain and scarring.
Awards & recognition
Best hospital in Northern California
Best in Northern California in gastroenterology & GI surgery
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
What is heartburn?
Daily Heartburn
Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest that can move up your neck and throat. This can be a symptom of many different conditions, including acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and even pregnancy.
Occasional Heartburn Relief Medication
When you are experiencing heartburn, you may also have a bitter or sour taste in the back of your throat. Heartburn can last from a few minutes to several hours. It often feels worse after you eat or when you lay down too quickly after eating.
How common is heartburn?
Occasional heartburn is fairly common. However, if you have regular and severe heartburn, it can actually be an indicator of a chronic acid reflux condition called GERD. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you frequently experience heartburn.
What does heartburn feel like?
Heartburn typically feels like a burning in the center of your chest, behind your breastbone. When you have heartburn, you may also feel symptoms like:
Occasional Gerd
- A burning feeling in your chest that can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours.
- Pain in your chest when you bend over or lay down.
- A burning feeling in your throat.
- A hot, sour, acidic or salty taste in the back of your throat.
- Difficulty swallowing.