MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It was built as an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends.

MedlinePlus presents high-quality, easy to understand, relevant health and wellness information that is trusted.

Alphabetical Listings

a b c d e f g h i j k l m
n o p q r s t u v w x y z

MedlinePlus at a Glance

Offers information on health topics, human genetics, medical tests, medications, dietary supplements, and healthy recipes.
Sourced from more than 1,600 selected organizations.
Provides 40,000 links to authoritative health information in English and 18,000 links to information in Spanish.
In 2018, 277 million users viewed MedlinePlus more than 700 million times.

Heartburn

Heartburn is a painful burning feeling in your chest or throat. It happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

If you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may have GERD. But you can have GERD without having heartburn.

Pregnancy, certain foods, alcohol, and some medications can bring on heartburn. Treating heartburn is important because over time reflux can damage the esophagus.

Over-the-counter medicines may help. If the heartburn continues, you may need prescription medicines or surgery.

If you have other symptoms such as crushing chest pain, it could be a heart attack. Get help immediately.