Heartburn, GERD, and other causes of upper abdominal pain are diagnosed and treated by the GI Department of Premier Medical Group. Heartburn is defined as a painful burning sensation in your chest, and is usually worsened when you lie down or bend over. Heartburn isn’t a disease; it’s a symptom, identified by the physicians in the GI Department of Premier Medical Group. Infrequent heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Almost everyone has occasional heartburn. It happens when acid backs up into your esophagus. Generally people can manage the symptoms of heartburn with over-the-counter medications and diet changes. Repeated episodes of heartburn and sour-tasting fluid in your throat can be a sign of something more serious, GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. This is also referred to as reflux disease. If you have other symptoms such as crushing chest pain, it could be a heart attack. Get help immediately.