A painful condition, heartburn involves the upper digestive system, not the heart itself. Symptoms of heartburn are confused with a heart attack by some of its sufferers because the pain often radiates from the central chest region. It is actually the result of stomach acids that react strongly to certain foods during digestion. The unprotected esophagus gets a small amount of stomach acid forced up and the resultant chemical burn causes moderate to severe pain.

Leading from the mouth to the stomach, the esophagus should not be exposed to stomach acids. A layer of mucus is contained by the stomach itself, and it is the layer that protects the stomach’s lining from the powerful digestive juices. Having no such defense, the esophagus utilizes a sphincter muscle near it to work as a one-way valve. Burns can be caused as esophagus can get stomach contents can be forced back up if the sphincter becomes overwhelmed or weak. This condition is called Gastroesophageal reflux disease abbreviated as GERD.

A temporary heartburn condition known as acid reflux can be experienced by a heartburn sufferer even if he or she does not have GERD. Foods which are heavily spiced or excessive amounts of general foods can overwhelm the stomach. As a result, the patient can experience a churning sensation followed by a sudden urge to vomit. From the vocal cords to the stomach, heartburn pain may affect the entire esophagus. Difficulty speaking and excruciating localized pain may be experienced if heartburn is severe.