Ask a doctor - What causes heartburn?

Q. What causes heartburn?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Heartburn is primarily caused by the abnormal flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can result from various factors. The most common causes of heartburn include:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a chronic condition where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This is the leading cause of recurrent and severe heartburn.

2. Dietary Choices: Certain foods and beverages can trigger heartburn, such as spicy, greasy, or acidic foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, and caffeine.

3. Overeating: Consuming large meals or overeating can increase abdominal pressure, causing stomach contents to push into the esophagus.

4. Eating Before Bed: Eating close to bedtime or lying down shortly after a meal can lead to heartburn because gravity isn't helping to keep stomach acid in the stomach.

5. Being Overweight: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach and increase the likelihood of acid reflux.

6. Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, which can make acid reflux more likely.

7. Smoking: Smoking can weaken the LES and contribute to acid reflux.

8. Alcohol: Consuming alcoholic beverages can relax the LES and contribute to heartburn.

9. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach can lead to heartburn during pregnancy.

10. Tight Clothing: Wearing tight belts or clothing that puts pressure on the abdomen can increase the risk of heartburn.

11. Lying Down or Bending Over: These positions can promote the flow of stomach acid into the esophagus.

12. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can sometimes exacerbate heartburn symptoms.

It's important to note that while these factors can trigger heartburn, they don't affect everyone in the same way. Some individuals are more prone to heartburn due to a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Management and prevention strategies often involve identifying specific triggers and making appropriate lifestyle changes. In some cases, medical treatment may be necessary for severe or chronic heartburn.