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Main > Specialty Areas > Gastroenterology >
Symptoms of Heartburn
A burning or aching feeling that occurs after eating a heavy meal and lying down and starts in the chest under the breastbone (the sternum) can last from a few minutes to a few hours. If it doesn't go away with antacids and mostly occurs after exercise rather than eating, you should consult your physician or gastroenterologist.
| A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system, starting from esophagus, down to the stomach, bowels and colon. |
Some symptoms of heartburn are:
Burning in the chest or throat
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Belching with burning sensation in chest of throat
Chronic coughing
Wheezing or other asthma-like symptoms
If a baby vomits up or throws up almost every time he eats and seems fussy, the infant may have gastric reflux.
| Symptoms of heartburn may sometimes be confused with a heart attack. Pain from a heart condition is usually made worse by lying down or bending your body, but heartburn is usually not caused by physical activity. |
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| Random Useful Tip: |
Epinephrine shot If you are known to have a severe anaphylactic reaction, carry an epinephrine (adrenaline) shot with you at all times. Pay attention to expiration date and replace it regularly: upon expiration, it loses its effectiveness. |
| Random Drug Info: |
Acyclovir Acyclovir is a medication that is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lips and genitals, chicken pox and shingles. It comes in the form of ointments, tablets, capsules or liquids. It relieves pain and itchiness and promotes healing; however, it does not cure the condition. Possible (but not common) side effects include headaches, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. Severe side effects, such as severe rash or itching, blood in the urine, stomach pain or fever are even less common, but require prompt medical attention. |
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