I have a problem with night heart burn. What might be the cause?

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for seeking our help with your concern about night time heart burn and possible causes.

Heartburn is form of indigestion felt as a burning sensation in the chest, caused by acid regurgitation into the esophagus. The pain is often worse when lying down or bending over.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

Normally when you swallow, a band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter, relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. Then the muscle tightens again.

If the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus and cause heartburn. The acid backup may be worse when you're bent over or lying down.

Eating certain foods, such as spicy foods, onions, citrus, tomato products, fatty and fried foods, caffeine, alcoholic beverages and large fatty meals, can trigger heartburn. Being overweight or pregnant can increase your chance of experiencing heartburn.

Regards,
Maryann