Heartburn - what does it feel llike? Pyrosis, is the medical term used for heartburn and can be a very unpleasant condition. Heartburn feels like a burning sensation in the chest, although other symptoms are also present that can aid in the identification of the condition. The most common location for heartburn pain is just below the sternum, or breastbone. About one in five people are estimated to experience heartburn at least once per week.

The non funtion of the lower esophageal sphincter is what causes heartburn. The contents of the stomach are normally kept in the stomach by this sphincter, it also separates the stomach from the esophagus. The burning painful sensation in the chest is created by the malfunction of the sphincter. This is due to the fact that the acidic contents of the stomach can travel up the esophagus.

Heartburn - how long does it last? Sufferers of heartburn will find that episodes can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. You will also find that the pain gets worse if you lie down. It can sometimes feel as though food gets stuck in the chest when eating and it can be difficult to swallow. In some cases, a sour or acidic taste may be experienced as the burning sensation travels up the throat.

The burning pain, although somewhat annoying is never more than that for most people. Frequent heartburn, however, in some instances, can result to further complications. Gastroesophageal Reflux disease (GERD) is the medical term used for frequent sufferers of heartburn, this can result, over a long period of time into ulcers or even worse esophageal cancer.

Smoking is a big contributing factor to heartburn, but lifestyle conditions can also play a big part. Obesity and pregnancy can both put additional pressure on the stomach, increasing the likelihood of heartburn. Similar pressure can be caused by tight-fitting clothes or tight belts. Stress seems to contribute to heartburn and certain medications are known to increase the frequency of heartburn.

Those who have never had a medical diagnosis of the condition may wonder what does heartburn feel like.Angina, in addition, to other medical conditions can be mistaken for heartburn. The pain can be eased for frequent sufferers by modifying your diet and lifestyle. Elimination of the pain should be done, at least on an acute basis by the antacids. If they don't eliminate the paint totally it should at least lessen it. Symptoms of more serious heart conditions can be experienced. If this is the case you should see seek medical advice immediately, especially if the pain radiates down your arms or to your shoulders.