Getting heartburn all of a sudden could be a reaction to food or medication or due to underlying health conditions such as a hiatal hernia. Heartburn is an irritation of the esophagus – the tube that connects your throat and stomach. It's caused by stomach acid. If you have GERD, you’re probably familiar with foods you should avoid. But there are many foods that help prevent and soothe acid reflux, too. Learn what to add to your grocery list. Heartburn happens when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, called the esophagus. Typically, when food is swallowed, a band of muscle around the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into the stomach. Then the muscle tightens. Severe heartburn and heart attack can be hard to tell apart. Understand how they typically differ, and learn when to get immediate help. That burning sensation in your chest? It’s probably heartburn. Constant heartburn symptoms could be a sign of something more serious. Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest that often causes a bitter taste in your throat or mouth. In general, you can treat heartburn symptoms at home. Heartburn is a burning sensation felt behind the breastbone. It is a symptom that is commonly linked to acid reflux [a] and is often triggered by food. Lying down, bending, lifting, and performing certain exercises can exacerbate heartburn. Causes include acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), [b] damage to the esophageal lining, bile acid, mechanical stimulation to the esophagus. Home remedies for heartburn include avoiding trigger foods, chewing gum, and elevating your head when lying down. Ginger, milk, or baking soda can also provide relief. To get rid of heartburn quickly, you can try home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and lifestyle changes. Learn tips for treatment and prevention. Heartburn is a burning pain in your chest. It’s actually in your esophagus, not your heart. You might feel it after eating. It’s caused by acid reflux.