Heartburn primarily hurts in your chest, just behind your breastbone.
Understanding Heartburn Pain
Heartburn, despite its name, has nothing to do with the heart. It's a burning sensation caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. This backflow irritates the lining of the esophagus, leading to discomfort.
Key Characteristics of Heartburn Pain:
- Location: Typically felt in the middle of your chest.
- Sensation: A burning feeling that can sometimes rise up towards the throat.
- Timing: Often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While occasional heartburn is common and usually not serious, you should consult a doctor if:
- Heartburn is frequent (more than twice a week).
- Symptoms persist despite over-the-counter medications.
- You experience difficulty swallowing.
- You have nausea, vomiting, or weight loss.
Reference
According to the provided reference, "Heartburn is a burning pain in your chest, just behind your breastbone. The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over. Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm."
