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 ...

Understanding the Context

Treatment Many nonprescription medicines can help relieve heartburn. The options include: Antacids, which help neutralize stomach acid. Antacids may provide quick relief. But they can't heal an esophagus damaged by stomach acid.

Key Insights

H2 blockers, which can reduce stomach acid. H2 blockers don't act as quickly as antacids, but they may provide longer ... Gastroesophageal reflux disease happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and causes heartburn. It's often called GERD for short. This backwash is known as acid reflux, and it can irritate the lining of the esophagus.

Final Thoughts

Many people experience acid reflux now and then. Severe heartburn and heart attack can be hard to tell apart. Understand how they typically differ, and learn when to get immediate help. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) care at Mayo Clinic Heartburn medicines and B-12 deficiency Minimally invasive surgery Request an appointment GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease is more than just a case of heartburn. Learn more about the common disorder from a Mayo Clinic expert. Acid-controlling medicines may do more than prevent heartburn.

They also may keep vitamin B-12 from being absorbed.