Digestive Disorders That Can Cause Heartburn

There are several digestive disorders, such as GERD, ulcers and hiatal hernias, that can cause heartburn symptoms. Knowing the facts will help in the treatment and prevention of heartburn.

GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus.

Peptic Ulcers
An ulcer in the stomach or duodenal (the first part of the small intestine) lining, known individually as stomach and duodenal ulcers, are collectively referred to as peptic ulcers.

Hiatal Hernia
Some people suffer from Gastroesophageal reflux disease because they have a hiatal hernia.

Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Although it doesn't cause heartburn, some of the symptoms are similar to those produced by heartburn, and it's treated in a similar way to GERD.

Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. It often occurs in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.