Chronic Heartburn: Causes, Triggers, and What Actually Works

When you have chronic heartburn, a persistent burning sensation in your chest caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Also known as GERD, it’s not just "bad indigestion"—it’s a condition that can damage your throat, lungs, and even increase cancer risk if left untreated. Unlike occasional heartburn after a spicy meal, chronic heartburn happens at least twice a week for months. It doesn’t go away with antacids. It keeps coming back, often worse at night or after lying down.

This isn’t just about food. GERD, a medical diagnosis for long-term acid reflux ties directly to lifestyle, anatomy, and medication use. Many people think it’s caused by too much acid—but often, it’s too little, or the valve between your stomach and esophagus is weak. Obesity, smoking, alcohol, and even tight clothing can make it worse. Some medications, like certain blood pressure pills or antidepressants, relax that valve and let acid climb up. And yes, proton pump inhibitors, a class of drugs that reduce stomach acid production like Prilosec are commonly used, but they’re not a cure. Long-term use can lead to nutrient deficiencies, bone loss, and rebound heartburn when you stop.

What most people miss is that chronic heartburn often responds better to changes in habits than to stronger meds. Eating smaller meals, avoiding food 3 hours before bed, sleeping on an incline, and losing even 10 pounds can cut symptoms in half. It’s not magic—it’s physics. Gravity matters. Pressure matters. Timing matters. And if you’re already taking PPIs, you might be stuck in a cycle: the drug helps now, but your body adapts, so you need more. That’s why some people end up switching to alternatives like H2 blockers or even trying natural approaches, like apple cider vinegar or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, though evidence is mixed.

There’s also a hidden link between chronic heartburn and other conditions. It’s tied to sleep apnea, asthma, and even voice problems. If you’ve been told you have "silent reflux," that’s not made up—it’s acid reaching your throat without the classic burning feeling. And if you’ve been on acid reducers for years without seeing your doctor, you’re missing out on important screenings. Endoscopy isn’t just a formality—it’s how you catch Barrett’s esophagus before it turns dangerous.

The posts below don’t just list drugs. They show you what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid traps. You’ll find comparisons between Prilosec and its alternatives, real talk on how to buy generic versions safely, and insights into how other medications might be making your heartburn worse. No fluff. No hype. Just what you need to know to take control—before your next flare-up hits.