Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest, just behind the breastbone, caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Heartburn can occur occasionally and is common in adults, but if it occurs frequently and interferes with your daily routine, it may be a symptom of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . Here are some common causes of heartburn:

• Foods: Certain foods and ingredients may intensify heartburn, such as spicy foods, citrus, tomato sauces, vinegar, fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, onions, peppermint, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.

• Overeating: Overeating can trigger heartburn because the stomach remains distended when there are large quantities of food in it, and the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach (lower esophageal sphincter or LES) may not close properly.

• Medications: Common medications taken for other problems, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, can increase the likelihood of heartburn. That includes medicines used to treat asthma, high blood pressure, heart problems, arthritis or other inflammation, osteoporosis, and sedatives.

• Tobacco: Tobacco in cigarettes is known to affect LES function too; cigarette smoking relaxes the muscle, which can result in heartburn.

• Being overweight or pregnant: Being overweight or pregnant can also trigger heartburn due to added pressure on the abdomen and stomach.

If you have frequent or constant heartburn (more than twice a week or heartburn every day), you may have GERD. It is important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and possible treatment options.