Heartburn in the Throat: Causes, Symptoms & Relief

Heartburn is a common condition that occurs when the sphincter muscle between the stomach and esophagus relaxes and allows stomach acid to wash upward. Heartburn can be a minor discomfort or become a chronic and debilitating sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Most Common Symptom

• The most common symptom of heartburn is a burning, painful sensation in the upper abdomen or chest, often moving up to the back of the throat.

Worsening Symptom

• Bending or lying down can trigger the chest and throat pain or make it worse. People may have problems sleeping due to heartburn pain developing when lying down.

Sore Throat

• Stomach acid spilling upward to the esophagus can cause a chronic sore throat, including painful and difficult swallowing.

Obstruction Sensation

• A person with heartburn might feel as though food is stuck in her throat. She may have a choking sensation or a feeling of throat tightness.

Hoarseness

• Other symptoms associated with chronic heartburn include hoarseness and habitual throat-clearing.