This is a highly publicized condition and one that can turn serious. Heartburn is a situation where the stomach acid reaches the oesophagus causing irritation. This irritation centres around the upper abdominal area just below the xiphoid process, or the breast bone.

Anyone can suffer from periodic heartburn, which is dependent on their diet in addition to not being dangerous. However, where heartburn turns into a chronic condition, it can lead to serious consequences. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is the technical name for this condition.

Unfortunately 20% of the Canadian population, part of that is here in Ottawa, suffer from some level of heartburn. Pregnant women put up with this condition as part of being pregnant. More common sources for this condition may be due to meals that are high in oils and fats, (vegetable or animal).

Certain medications can also cause heartburn. Furthermore, lack of sleep and high levels of stress are also sources for an increase in stomach acid production manifesting in heartburn. If an individual tends to have frequent incidents with heartburn it is advisable to see an Ottawa doctor to discuss how to deal with it.