Which Doctor Treats Heartburn?

Heartburn is that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest that occurs when stomach acid irritates your esophagus. This common symptom can happen occasionally or chronically, affecting your quality of life and sleep. Heartburn differs from a heart attack but can feel similar, so understanding the difference is important. Determining what kind of doctor should I see for heartburn helps you get appropriate treatment quickly.

Your primary care physician can help with occasional heartburn using over-the-counter antacids and lifestyle changes. If heartburn occurs frequently or severely, a gastroenterologist specializes in acid reflux disease and can perform tests to confirm GERD diagnosis and recommend stronger medications. Most heartburn improves with lifestyle modifications including avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, staying upright after eating, and elevating your head while sleeping.

While heartburn is usually not serious, persistent symptoms require professional evaluation. If your heartburn doesn't respond to medication, worsens despite treatment, or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss, see a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.