Nigeria, Aug. 29 -- Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus, is a common digestive complaint.

It occurs when stomach contents move backwards into the oesophagus, often causing a burning sensation behind the breastbone or a sour taste in the mouth.

While occasional heartburn is usually not a cause for concern, frequent episodes can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or GORD), a condition that occurs when acid reflux happens regularly and causes troublesome symptoms or complications.

Speaking with PT Health Watch, Owen Woghiren, a consultant gastroenterologist, explained that occasional heartburn does not necessarily mean a person has GERD.

"Someone can occasion...