Heartburn, a condition in which stomach acid flows through the esophageal sphincter and up into your esophagus, may be caused by certain foods. Mostly acidic substances like orange juice, tomato sauce, vinegar, fried and fatty foods are common culprits.
Definition
Heartburn is aptly named; it is characterized by a burning, warm or painful sensation just behind and sometimes a little bit below your breastbone. This feeling may worsen if you lie down or bend over.
Symptoms
Additional symptoms of heartburn may include burping, nausea or bloating. You may feel a sour taste in your mouth or the burning discomfort spreading up into your throat.
Common
According to the Mayo Clinic, occasional heartburn is no cause for alarm. It can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as diet changes and non-prescription medications.
Emergency Concerns
Because heartburn may be a sign of more serious conditions such as a heart attack, you should contact a doctor immediately if you experience heartburn with severe chest pain or other typical heart attack symptoms, such as problems breathing or pain in your jaw or arm on either side.
Persistent Symptoms
Go see a doctor if you have persistent heartburn that happens more than twice a week, a heartburn that cannot be remedied with over-the-counter meds or if it is accompanied by difficulty swallowing.
