Heartburn and Reflux About 10 percent of the population experiences heartburn and reflux daily. And, 25 percent of pregnant women have heartburn. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. People usually experience heartburn after meals as a burning sensation or pain behind the breastbone. Often, regurgitation of food and bittertasting stomach acid accompanies heartburn. Although not life threatening, when heartburn is persistent it needs to be evaluated and follow up care is necessary.
To reduce heartburn and reflux, you can eat smaller and more frequent meals, avoid eating before going to bed, use antacids, and eliminate or reduce use of nicotine, fatty foods, alcohol, coffee, chocolate and peppermint.