Heartburn is an uncomfortable feeling of burning and warmth behind the breastbone (sternum) but sometimes rising as high as the neck.
Heartburn is a popular nonmedical term that often is referred to medically as pyrosis.
The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over.
ASSOCIATED SYMPTOMS
Heartburn can be associated with
Chest pain,
Sour taste in the mouth,
Dry cough,
Hoarseness,
Sore throat,
Difficulty swallowing.
What are the causes?
GERD is the main cause.
Certain foods and drinks can trigger heartburn in some people, including:
Spicy foods
Onions
Citrus products
Tomato products, such as ketchup
Fatty or fried foods
Peppermint
Chocolate
Alcohol, carbonated beverages, coffee or other caffeinated beverages
Large or fatty meals
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate help if you experience severe chest pain or pressure, especially when combined with other signs and symptoms such as pain in the arm or jaw or difficulty breathing. Chest pain may be a symptom of a heart attack.
