What is heartburn?
A person with heartburn has discomfort in the chest caused by stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus. The most common cause of heartburn is reflux esophagitis.

What are the symptoms of heartburn?
Symptoms of heartburn include upper abdominal pain, lower chest pain, belching, bitter taste in mouth, cough, indigestion, sore throat and hoarse voice.

How does the doctor treat heartburn?
Treatment for heartburn includes antacids and acid blocker medications. Surgery may be an option in some patients with recurrent heartburn that does not respond to medications.