Why Do I Have Heartburn?

Heartburn is experienced by more than 70 million Americans every year. After a large meal, when bending at the waist or lying down after a meal, many people have that sudden burning sensation in the upper abdomen. Some experience a sour or bitter taste in their mouths. Why?

What Causes Heartburn?

Food and stomach juice that backs up into the esophagus causes heartburn. This backing up of food and juices is known as gastroesophageal reflux.

The Basic Cause

The process may be explained this way:

1. Something weakens or overpowers the ring of muscle at the lower end of the esophagus (esophageal sphincter). The muscle ring does not close entirely as it is designed to do.

2. The stomach’s power to empty itself is reduced.

3. The esophagus loses its ability to push food down to the stomach.

Pressure on the Stomach

Pressure on the stomach also causes heartburn. The pressure may be due to obesity. It may be caused by tight clothing. Frequent bending over and lifting also causes heartburn in some people. You may find that putting pressure on the stomach by straining with bowel movements, vigorous exercise, or pregnancy causes heartburn.

Food and Drink

Food and drink initially causes heartburn in some people, but not all. Possible culprits are alcohol, carbonated drinks, chocolate, coffee, fatty foods, fried foods, peppermint, or sugars.

After heartburn has occurred a few times, the backing up of stomach juices can make your esophagus sensitive to other foods. You may then have to add to your list such foods as citrus fruits, garlic, onions, spices, and tomatoes.

Other Causes

Smoking causes heartburn in many smokers. Other possible causes of heartburn include medications and stress.

CAUTION: Heartburn symptoms may feel similar to heart attack symptoms. If you have a history of heart problems, or you have risk factors that might lead to a heart attack, ask a physician about your heartburn symptoms, They may be a warning of more serious problems.