Heartburn is a burning sensation felt in the chest, caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. There are two main types of heartburn: acute and chronic. Acute heartburn is a temporary condition, while chronic heartburn is a long-term condition that requires ongoing treatment.
Causes of heartburn include certain foods and drinks (such as spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol), smoking, pregnancy, certain medications, and certain medical conditions (such as hiatal hernia and Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Symptoms of heartburn include a burning sensation in the chest, difficulty swallowing, and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
Diagnosis of heartburn is typically made based on a person’s symptoms, and may be confirmed with tests such as an upper endoscopy or pH monitoring.
Treatment for heartburn includes lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers and eating smaller meals, as well as over-the-counter medications such as antacids and acid reducers. In more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary.
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