Heartburn typically feels like a burning pain in your chest, located just behind your breastbone.
Here's a more detailed description of what you might experience:
- Location: The burning sensation usually starts in the lower chest and can sometimes radiate upwards towards your neck and throat.
- Timing: Heartburn is often worse after eating a large meal, consuming certain foods (like spicy or fatty foods), in the evening, or when you're lying down or bending over.
- Sensation: The pain is frequently described as a burning, tight, or squeezing sensation. Some people may also experience a sour or bitter taste in the back of their throat or mouth due to stomach acid backing up (acid reflux).
- Duration: Heartburn can last for a few minutes or several hours, depending on the cause and severity.
- Relief: Symptoms may improve by sitting upright, taking antacids, or drinking water.
In summary, heartburn feels like a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste, and it's usually triggered by eating or lying down.
