Heartburn occurs from factors that make stomach acid back up into the esophagus and throat, causing a burning sensation in the throat or back of the mouth. The lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle valve in the esophagus, is the source of the bitter acid reflux reaction. The sphincter opens and closes when food and beverages pass into the stomach. When the sphincter relaxes and does not close properly, stomach acid flows back up, explains MayoClinic.com.
Lifestyle
Overeating and being overweight or obese increase the frequency of heartburn. Extra weight puts pressure on the abdomen to cause acid reflux. Lying down soon after eating can bring on heartburn. MedlinePlus recommends waiting two to three hours after a meal before lying down. Bending over, especially after eating, may produce heartburn. Smoking has chemicals that weaken the lower esophageal sphincter to result in frequent heartburn. Stress can cause or worsen heartburn. Certain foods cause heartburn and may be particular to each person. Items that may lead to heartburn include fatty or spicy foods, tomato-based products, citrus fruits and juices, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, caffeine and carbonated beverages.
Medication
Certain medications can cause heartburn. People who think their heartburn symptoms are the result of medication can check with the doctor to see if the medication can be changed. Such medications include beta blockers and calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure. Bronchodilators used for asthma may cause heartburn. Sedatives for anxiety or insomnia, and tricyclic antidepressants cause heartburn in some patients. Progestin used for abnormal menstrual bleeding or birth control may trigger heartburn.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper portion of the stomach pushes upward into the chest, weakening the esophageal muscle valve to increase acid reflux. Smoking and obesity, which can increase heartburn, are risk factors for hiatal hernia. The condition also occurs in some people as they age.
GERD
Frequent heartburn that cannot be controlled through lifestyle or dietary changes may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD. Heartburn happens often in GERD because the esophageal sphincter has become permanently weakened or damaged. Prescription medication can provide relief from heartburn for GERD patients. In some cases, surgery can strengthen the esophageal muscle valve to reduce heartburn. Treatment is necessary because frequent acid backup over time can damage the esophageal lining.
