Heartburn

Occasional heartburn is common, but frequent symptoms may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease and should be evaluated to prevent long term complications.

Spicy, oily, fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, and large meals commonly trigger heartburn by increasing stomach acid production.

Mild heartburn improves with dietary changes, but persistent symptoms may require medical treatment to control acid and protect the food pipe lining.

Consult a doctor if heartburn occurs frequently, disturbs sleep, causes swallowing difficulty, or does not improve with lifestyle modifications.