If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Heartburn is a medical condition in which the contents of the stomach move backward and upward into the food pipe. Heartburn is also known as gastrointestinal reflux. The diaphragm and a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter usually prevent heartburn. However, this muscle can sometimes relax and leave the food pipe unprotected from stomach acid. A person might experience heartburn when stomach acid comes into contact with the lining of the food pipe.
In very rare cases, when GERD is particularly severe, a doctor will recommend surgery. Preventing heartburn. Pillows are not effective in reducing heartburn symptoms. She holds a B.
The uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn can last for two hours or longer, depending on the cause. Mild heartburn that occurs after eating spicy or acidic food typically lasts until the food has been digested. Heartburn symptoms may also return several hours after they first appeared if you bend over or lie down. In this case, your heartburn will most likely continue to occur until the condition causing it is treated or managed. They can help identify underlying causes for your heartburn and an appropriate treatment plan. There are many ways you may be able to prevent occasional heartburn or reduce the frequency of chronic heartburn. If you have heartburn more than twice a week or if it interferes with your life, talk to your doctor.
Pillows are not effective in reducing heartburn symptoms. How long would I have to stick to an acid reflux friendly diet before I can start eating normally again? Studies have also found that while sleeping on the right side actually aggravates heartburn, flipping over to your left side is likely to calm it, although the reason why is unknown. Causes of heartburn and acid reflux Lots of people get heartburn from time to time. How do I stop reflux?