Heartburn is a burning feeling rising from the stomach or lower chest up towards the neck. It is caused by acid from the stomach backing up into the gullet (oesophagus or swallowing pipe).

What causes Heartburn?

Normally, a ‘valve’ at the lower end of the swallowing pipe (the lower oesophageal sphincter) opens when you swallow and closes when food has passed. In some people, this does not work properly and does not close off when it should, usually after a meal.

Heartburn can be infrequent or can occur regularly in patients with conditions such as acid reflux disease.

In patients with acid reflux disease, heartburn usually gets worse after they eat, or when they lie down or bend over.

How serious is Heartburn?

Heartburn symptoms produce a lot of discomfort and can affect feelings of well-being when they appear regularly. Heartburn may signal other problems such as oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus) or GERD, which can be more serious. Patients may then require stronger medicines to control symptoms if heartburn persists, so it is important to seek a doctor’s advice.
How long does Heartburn last?
The symptoms of heartburn can be frequent and may last several weeks, months or longer if left untreated. Because they may appear now and again they may be experienced for a long time before a decision is taken to seek medical advice. They can also re-occur after treatment.

I can test for helicobacter by using kinesiology. If it is the cause then it can be easily treated, if it is not we can work out what has caused the heartburn in the first place