Heartburn is a burning sensation located just below or behind the breastbone, often rising from the stomach into the chest. The pain can also spread to the neck or throat.
Understanding Heartburn Location
Heartburn's location is primarily in the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. The burning feeling stems from stomach acid refluxing back up into the esophagus. This backward flow irritates the esophageal lining, causing the characteristic burning pain.
- Specific Location: The discomfort is felt primarily in the chest, just behind the breastbone (sternum).
- Radiation of Pain: The pain can radiate upwards towards the neck and throat or spread slightly outwards across the chest.
- Source of Discomfort: The actual source of the problem is the stomach acid in the esophagus, not necessarily a problem within the heart itself.
Why is it called "Heartburn"?
The name "heartburn" can be misleading. The burning sensation is not related to the heart but to the esophagus, its close proximity to the heart leading to the name.
