What causes heartburn?
Heartburn is commonly the result of overeating, drinking alcohol while eating, or consuming greasy or spicy foods. It can also be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Once you experience heartburn, it may never return or it may recur frequently. Heartburn can also result if the valve between the stomach and the esophagus becomes dysfunctional and allows stomach contents to enter the esophagus.
What are the risk factors for heartburn?
A number of factors increase the risk of developing heartburn. Not all people with risk factors will get heartburn. Risk factors for heartburn include:
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Alcohol use
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Caffeine consumption
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Foods or substances containing mint
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Foods such as chocolate; spicy, fatty or fried foods; and foods with tomato sauce, onions, or garlic
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Obesity
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Pregnancy
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Smoking
Reducing your risk of heartburn
You may be able to lower your risk of heartburn by:
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Eating in moderation
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Elevating the upper part of your body when lying down and at night
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Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding alcohol with meals
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Maintaining a healthy weight
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Quitting smoking
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Waiting several hours after eating before lying down
INTRODUCTION
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is the sensation of burning and pain in the region behind the breastbone (sternum) and in the upper abdomen. It is typically a symptom of a condition known as acid indigestion or acid reflux. The burning pain of heartburn is the result of stomach acid moving upward into the back of the throat, causing i...
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SYMPTOMS
What are the symptoms of heartburn?
Heartburn is caused by the backward movement of stomach contents into the esophagus, which may result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals....
Read more about heartburn symptoms
TREATMENTS
How is heartburn treated?
Over-the-counter antacids are the mainstay of treatment for heartburn. Other medications that decrease stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors and histamine H2-receptor antagonists, are also effective treatments....
Read more about heartburn treatments
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