What are the Causes of Heartburn?

Heartburn occurs when gastric acids, meant to stay in the stomach, rise up from the abdomen into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter should prevent this from happening, but sometimes this valve gets damaged or weakened. This allows the gastric acids to back up into the food pipe. While researching the causes of heartburn, you need to determine why this valve is not working properly.

Some of the causes of heartburn are results of increased pressure in the stomach. This pressure pushes upward on the esophageal valve, forcing it to open.

Leading causes of heartburn can include:

• Eating too fast.
• Eating a large meal.
• Going to sleep with a full stomach.
• Pregnancy: due to the pressure on internal organs from the growing uterus.
• Tight-fitting clothing around the torso, such as belts or slimming undergarments.
• Eating large portions of gas-producing and fatty foods that digest slowly.

The most noticeable cause of heartburn is usually from foods that increase the production of stomach acids. Tomatoes, citrus and other acidic foods, spicy or deep-fried foods cause heartburn in many people. Carbonated beverages, such as sodas can also increase acid production. Caffeine in coffee and tea can upset the balance as well.

Other possible causes of heartburn include:

• Stress
• Certain medications
• Smoking and chewing tobacco
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Hiatal hernia
• Peptic ulcers

Keeping a record of the foods you eat, how you eat and tracking when heartburn episodes occur may help determine the cause.

Occasional heartburn is common. But, if you have chronic heartburn or find causes of severe heartburn, you should consult your doctor immediately.

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