Heartburn

Heartburn is a common discomfort that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. This backflow irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing a burning sensation or painful feeling in the chest or throat. Factors like certain foods, large meals, obesity, smoking, or lying down after eating can trigger heartburn. While usually harmless, frequent or severe heartburn may indicate acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which might require medical attention to prevent complications.