Heartburn

Further Information

• Canadian Digestive Health Foundation
• YourDigestiveHealth.ca
• The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research

Interactive Learning

Heartburn is a burning feeling rising from the stomach or lower chest up towards the neck. It is caused by acid from the stomach backing up into the esophagus. Sometimes there may be a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.

Heartburn can be infrequent or can happen regularly in patients with conditions such as acid reflux disease. In patients with acid reflux disease, heartburn usually gets worse after they eat, or when they lie down or bend over. Heartburn may also occur after taking certain medications.