What is heartburn caused by and is it dangerous?

The stomach is the source of acid, which helps to digest the food we eat. When there is too much secretion of an acid, the acid can travel up to the food pipe known as the esophagus. Many factors can cause increased acid secretion: they are caffeine, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol, late night snacks, obesity and spicy foods.

Because the lining of the esophagus is very sensitive to the acid, irritation and inflammation develops which can cause the symptoms of heartburn.

When there is chronic and prolonged exposure of acid to the esophagus, then the esophagus lining membrane becomes inflamed. This causes the condition known as esophagitis. This prolonged inflammation when left untreated for many years, can lead to cancer of the esophagus in some cases. So the message is, do not ignore the symptoms of heartburn. If you experience heartburn 2 - 3 times per week ------ see your doctor.

Frank Y. An, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.