Heartburn | Pyrosis | MedlinePlus

P Heartburn is a painful burning feeling in your chest or throat. It happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.
P If you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may have GERD. But you can have GERD without having heartburn.
P Pregnancy, certain foods, alcohol, and some medications can bring on heartburn. Treating heartburn is important because over time reflux can damage the esophagus.
P Over-the-counter medicines may help. If the heartburn continues, you may need prescription medicines or surgery.
P If you have other symptoms such as crushing chest pain, it could be a heart attack. Get help immediately.

