Although “heartburn” is often used to describe a variety of digestive problems, in medical terms it is actually a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease. In this condition, the acids from the stomach reflux or accidently “back up” into the esophagus (food pipe). Heartburn is described as a harsh, burning sensation in the area in between your ribs or just below your neck. The feeling may radiate through the chest and into the throat and neck. Other symptoms may also include vomiting, difficulty swallowing and chronic coughing or wheezing.
