Acid Reflux


Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. Heartburn is an irritation of the gullet that is caused by stomach acid. The cause of heartburn is an underactive valve, that doesn't tighten as it should and so allows acid from the stomach in to the gullet

Certain foods high in fats and oils or acid commonly relax this valve, often leading to heartburn. Stress increases acid production and can cause heartburn. Smoking relaxes the valve and stimulates stomach acid and so can also cause heart burn.

Symptoms include
A burning feeling in the chest
Chest pain, especially after bending over, lying down or eating
Burning in the throat
Difficulty swallowing
Feeling of food "sticking" in the middle of the chest or throat

Heartburn may also cause chronic cough, sore throat, or chronic hoarseness. There are many treatments available for heartburn. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.