Heartburn: which doctor to see
Heartburn — a burning feeling behind the breastbone after eating — happens occasionally even in healthy people. But if it bothers you more than twice a week, disturbs your sleep or keeps you reaching for antacids, see a gastroenterologist.
Common causes
- Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus (reflux)
- Heavy, fatty or spicy food, coffee, alcohol
- Excess weight and lying down right after meals
- Pregnancy
- Certain painkillers
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Difficulty swallowing, food feeling "stuck"
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Heartburn with unexplained weight loss
- Burning chest pain with shortness of breath and cold sweat — could be the heart, call 103
- Heartburn that first appears after 50 and quickly worsens
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
Your specialist
Gastroenterologist
What to bring to the visit
- A diary: what triggers the heartburn and how often it happens
- A list of medicines you take, including heartburn remedies
- Gastroscopy results, if you have had one
Frequently asked questions
Is a gastroscopy always necessary?
Not always: with typical heartburn and no warning signs the doctor may start treatment without it. Gastroscopy is ordered when there are red flags or the treatment does not help.
Baking soda helps — can I keep using it?
Soda gives short relief but irritates the stomach and does not treat the cause. Discuss modern options with your doctor — they last longer and are safer.
More in “Abdomen and digestion”
- Abdominal pain
Gastroenterologist
- Constipation or diarrhea in adults
Gastroenterologist
The information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.