Chronic Heartburn? Why Your Chest Is Burning & Medically Approved Next Steps

If you're dealing with frequent heartburn, you're not alone. Millions of adults experience it regularly. That burning feeling in your chest can range from mildly uncomfortable to disruptive and painful. While occasional heartburn is common, chronic heartburn deserves closer attention.

Here's what may be causing it, what it means for your health, and the medically approved next steps to feel better safely.

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What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone. It often happens after eating, when lying down, or at night. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with your heart.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach). This is called acid reflux. Your stomach lining is built to handle acid. Your esophagus is not.

When acid repeatedly irritates the esophagus, it causes that familiar burning feeling.

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Why Is Your Chest Burning?

The most common cause of chronic heartburn is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is diagnosed when acid reflux happens frequently (typically two or more times per week) or causes complications.

Common Triggers of Heartburn

Several everyday factors can increase acid reflux:

• Large or heavy meals
• Fatty or fried foods
• Spicy foods
• Chocolate
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Carbonated drinks
• Smoking
• Lying down soon after eating
• Obesity or excess abdominal weight
• Pregnancy

Certain medications can also worsen heartburn, including some pain relievers, blood pressure medications, and sedatives.

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Symptoms That Often Accompany Heartburn

In addition to chest burning, you might notice:

• A sour or bitter taste in your mouth
• Regurgitation of food or liquid
• Chronic cough
• Hoarseness
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling like there's a lump in your throat

If these symptoms happen regularly, chronic heartburn may be more than just occasional reflux.

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When Is Heartburn Serious?

Most heartburn is uncomfortable but not dangerous. However, chronic, untreated heartburn can lead to complications over time.

Possible Complications Include:

• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
• Esophageal strictures (narrowing that makes swallowing difficult)
• Barrett's esophagus, a condition that slightly increases the risk of esophageal cancer

You should seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Chest pain that spreads to your arm, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating with chest pain
• Vomiting blood
• Black or tarry stools
• Trouble swallowing that worsens
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms could indicate a medical emergency or a more serious condition. Do not ignore them.

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Medically Approved Next Steps for Chronic Heartburn

The good news: heartburn is treatable. Doctors typically recommend a step-by-step approach.

1. Lifestyle Changes (First-Line Treatment)

For many people, simple changes can significantly reduce heartburn.

Consider:

• Eating smaller meals instead of large portions
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Waiting at least 2–3 hours before lying down after eating
• Elevating the head of your bed 6–8 inches
• Losing excess weight if applicable
• Stopping smoking
• Limiting alcohol intake

Even modest weight loss has been shown in clinical studies to improve reflux symptoms.

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2. Over-the-Counter Medications

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, medications may help.

Common options include:

• Antacids (quick relief, short-term effect)
• H2 blockers (reduce acid production)
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (stronger acid suppression)

PPIs are often recommended for persistent heartburn and GERD. They are generally safe when used as directed but should not be taken long term without medical supervision.

If you need medication more than a couple of times per week, it's time to talk to a healthcare professional.

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3. Prescription Treatment and Testing

If heartburn continues despite treatment, your doctor may recommend:

• A prescription-strength PPI
• An upper endoscopy (to look at the esophagus)
• pH monitoring to measure acid levels
• Testing for other causes of chest discomfort

In rare cases, surgery may be considered if medications fail and symptoms are severe.

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Could It Be Something Other Than Heartburn?

Chest burning is often heartburn — but not always.

Other conditions that can mimic heartburn include:

• Heart disease
• Esophageal motility disorders
• Gallbladder disease
• Peptic ulcers
• Anxiety-related chest discomfort

Because symptoms can overlap, it's important not to self-diagnose persistent chest pain.

If you're experiencing chest burning and want to better understand what might be causing it, Ubie's free AI-powered Heartburn Symptom Checker can help you identify potential causes and determine whether you should seek medical care.

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How Long Is Too Long to Have Heartburn?

Occasional heartburn is common. Chronic heartburn — defined as symptoms occurring two or more times per week — should be evaluated.

You should schedule a medical appointment if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few weeks
• Over-the-counter medications don't work
• You rely on medication daily
• Symptoms are worsening
• You develop swallowing problems

Early evaluation can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.

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Practical Daily Tips to Reduce Heartburn

Here are simple habits that can make a meaningful difference:

• Chew food slowly and thoroughly
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing around your waist
• Sleep on your left side (may reduce nighttime reflux)
• Keep a food diary to identify triggers
• Stay upright after meals

Consistency matters. Small daily changes often work better than drastic short-term fixes.

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The Bottom Line

Chronic heartburn is common — but it's not something you should ignore.

In many cases, it's caused by acid reflux or GERD and can be managed effectively with:

• Lifestyle changes
• Appropriate medications
• Medical evaluation when needed

While most heartburn is not dangerous, persistent symptoms can lead to complications if untreated. And because chest discomfort can sometimes signal serious conditions, it's important to take ongoing symptoms seriously.

If you're unsure what's causing your burning chest sensation, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered Heartburn Symptom Checker to get personalized insights about your symptoms and guidance on next steps.

Most importantly, speak to a doctor about any symptoms that are severe, persistent, worsening, or possibly life-threatening. Prompt medical care can rule out serious problems and help you find safe, effective relief.

You don't have to live with chronic heartburn — and you don't have to guess what's causing it. The right steps today can prevent bigger issues tomorrow.