While acid reflux and heartburn are related, they have some differences you should be aware of before you decide to treat them with the same treatment. The most important difference is the source of the pain.
| Acid Reflux | Heartburn |
| Is caused by reflux of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. | Is caused by stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus and the stomach. |
| Temporary condition. | Chronic condition. |
| Treated with prescribed medications. | Treated with over-the counter medications or other medications prescribed. |
Acid reflux and heartburn are similar in that they both cause pain or discomfort in the chest area. However, they are also different because one condition is caused by stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus and the stomach, while the other condition is caused by reflux of acid from the stomach into the esophagus.
Heartburn occurs when acid backs up into your esophagus. The acid causes irritation, which leads to pain and discomfort. After the acid has gone back up into your esophagus, it is repeated, and you will continue to have the symptoms of heartburn, even if you’re taking steps to prevent it.
Another difference is that heartburn is a chronic condition, while acid reflux is usually a temporary condition that comes and goes. However, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor if you’re experiencing a chronic burning sensation in the chest and stomach area.
Heartburn is usually treated with over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, or other medications prescribed by your doctor. By treating the symptoms with over-the-counter or over-the-counter-like medications, you can prevent acid reflux.
Acid reflux, on the other hand, is usually treated with medications prescribed by your doctor. There are prescription medications that can be used to treat acid reflux, but they can also be used to help prevent it.
These medications take the pain that you may have been experiencing and reduce it to a level that you can handle. You may also be prescribed a medication that works to reduce the acid in your stomach.
These medications take the pain that you may have been experiencing and reduce it to a level that you can handle. You may also be prescribed a medication that works to reduce the acid in your stomach.
If you’re experiencing a burning sensation in your chest area, you should see your doctor to see if your doctor can help you to treat your symptoms. If you’re experiencing heartburn, you should see your doctor if you’re experiencing symptoms lasting longer than 12 weeks.
Acid reflux is also treated with medication that can be used to prevent acid reflux. You should talk to your doctor about the medications you can take to prevent acid reflux. If you’re taking medication to prevent acid reflux, you should avoid foods that can cause you to experience acid reflux, such as citrus fruit, tomatoes, and hot and spicy foods.
