It can last for hours and occur every time you eat. This irritates the lining of the esophagus. If the feeling of heartburn is new to you, is not relieved with antacids, is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating or nausea, see a doctor immediately to rule out a possible heart problem. People do mistake a heart attack for indigestion or severe heartburn and lose precious time that could have saved heart muscle. Also see a doctor if you have difficulty swallowing or chronic heartburn symptoms.
Some people are more prone to heartburn.
These include smokers, people on certain medications, pregnant women and overweight people. When you are advised to take medications with plenty of water or food, heed the warning because it may prevent heartburn. In some people, bending over or lying down after eating aggravates heartburn. Common food culprits include high-fat foods, onions, alcohol, garlic, coffee, tomato and orange juices and carbonated drinks. Surprisingly, peppermint and chocolate, often given to top off a meal and aid digestion, also can cause heartburn in susceptible individuals.