What Is Heartburn and What Causes It?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This backflow, also known as acid reflux, happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle at the end of the esophagus, becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, leading to the familiar burning sensation. Heartburn is commonly triggered after eating a large meal, drinking caffeinated beverages, or lying down soon after eating.
Heartburn can occur occasionally in otherwise healthy individuals, especially after consuming certain foods or drinks. However, frequent heartburn may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more severe condition where acid reflux occurs more than twice a week. In GERD, the LES becomes weaker or doesn't close properly, allowing stomach acid to irritate the esophagus regularly. Identifying and addressing the causes of heartburn can help prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of complications.
