Heartburn is a burning sensation behind the breastbone after eating. In severe cases it spreads to the neck, throat, larynx or the sides of the chest. Heartburn is one of the main symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. It can also occur in healthy people who make mistakes in their diet. Some people may confuse heartburn with symptoms of coronary heart disease. Heartburn is sometimes accompanied by acid belching, hoarseness and a dry cough. Symptoms worsen after a large meal, especially if the person lies down after eating.

Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for concern. Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn themselves through lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines.

Heartburn that occurs more often or interferes with your daily life, however, may be a symptom of a more serious condition requiring medical care.

To avoid side effects and unforeseen situations that could lead to irreversible damage, treatment should be managed by a professional gastroenterologist.

In a gastroenterology department you can undergo expert diagnostics and, where necessary, receive high-quality treatment in Switzerland. Gastroenterology in Switzerland is as advanced as anywhere in the world.

Symptoms of heartburn

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, especially when the lining of the oesophagus is inflamed. This is not unusual in young children, whose muscles are not yet fully developed. Heartburn symptoms may be worse after sleep, because the stomach contents are liquid and pass into the oesophagus more easily when lying down. Signs of heartburn include:

  • acid reflux
  • a burning pain in the throat or chest
  • pain or discomfort in the diaphragm
  • nausea

Young children find it harder to express their symptoms and may find it difficult to recognise that they have heartburn. Symptoms of heartburn in young children include:

  • frequent regurgitation
  • difficulty swallowing
  • pain when swallowing food

Diagnosing heartburn

During the medical examination, the doctor first establishes exactly where it hurts and when the heartburn occurs. Lifestyle and eating habits are discussed, as they play an important role in heartburn. If reflux disease is suspected, the doctor will order a gastroscopy, using a tube camera to examine the oesophagus for signs of inflammation, erosions, narrowing and tumours. Tissue samples are taken where necessary.

Helpful advice for heartburn

If you experience heartburn, you can try to ease it by following these dietary tips.

Foods that help with heartburn:

  • Bananas
  • Biscuits and rusks
  • Avocado
  • Almonds

Foods to avoid with heartburn:

  • Coffee, juice and alcohol
  • Spicy food
  • Fatty food
  • Citrus fruit and vinegar-based pickles

It is also important to follow these rules:

  • Keep your mouth fresh by brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth often
  • Sit upright while eating
  • Stay upright for a while after eating
  • Sleep on pillows that raise your head slightly
  • Eat no later than 3 hours before bedtime
  • Stop smoking
  • Manage stress – uncontrolled stress can intensify heartburn symptoms
  • Eat small, frequent meals

When should you see a doctor?

If you have had heartburn for a long time, it is sensible to see a doctor. Do you have any of the following complaints in addition to heartburn?

  • a feeling that food will not go down the oesophagus
  • regular nausea or vomiting
  • loss of more than five kilograms in a short time for no apparent reason
  • black, loose stools

If so, see a doctor without delay and have a thorough diagnostic assessment.