Heartburn and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Abstract

Heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach refluxes back up the oesophagus. It is described as a burning sensation, felt in the centre of the chest behind the breastbone, moving up toward the throat and neck. It is the most common symptom of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), together with the regurgitation of stomach acid. GORD is defined on the basis of troublesome symptoms and/or physical damage resulting from gastro-oesophageal reflux, also called acid reflux.