Symptoms

Symptoms of heartburn include:

• A burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
• Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
• Bitter or acidic taste in the mouth

When to see a doctor

Seek immediate help if you experience severe chest pain or pressure, especially when combined with other signs and symptoms such as pain in the arm or jaw or difficulty breathing. Chest pain may be a symptom of a heart attack.

Make an appointment with your doctor if:

• Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
• Symptoms persist despite use of over-the-counter medications
• You have difficulty swallowing
• You have persistent nausea or vomiting
• You have weight loss because of poor appetite or difficulty eating