Heartburn is caused by acid from the stomach backing up into the gullet. Although the name implies that this condition occurs in the heart, it is purely a digestive issue. Some of the signs of heartburn may resemble those of a heart attack, but the two are completely unrelated.http://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/understanding-heartburn-basics There are various aliments that often accompany heartburn, including indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease and oesophagitis.http://familydoctor.org/087.xml

Heartburn can affect people of all ages. However, it is most common among the elderly population and in pregnant women. The time heartburn usually hits is right after a meal, and it is commonly felt as a burning sensation in the chest area.http://www.gastro.org/patient-center/digestive-conditions/heartburn-gerdhttp://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/guide/understanding-heartburn-basics

Heartburn can sometimes be avoided by monitoring the diet, and steering clear of foods that can trigger an episode. Foods that contribute to heartburn include fried and fatty foods, liquor, coffee, chocolate, foods and sauces containing tomatoes, orange juice and foods with vinegar.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095/DSECTION=risk%2Dfactors

In cases where heartburn recurs often or is unbearably uncomfortable, medications may be used to help treat the condition. Some of these medications are over the counter, and are available at most drug stores and supermarkets. Other medications are only available with a prescription. OTC drugs used to treat heartburn include antacids such as Tums or Mylanta, acid reducers such as Pepcid AC or Tagamet HB, and acid controllers/esophagus healers such as Prilosec OTC and Prevacid 24 HR.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095/DSECTION=treatments%2Dand%2Ddrugs

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have heartburn, please make sure to consult your doctor.