That Burning Feeling: Is it an Ulcer or Something Else?

Do you often feel a burning sensation in your stomach or lower chest? Does it worsen after having a meal or after a stressful day?

A burning sensation is often associated with ulcers, and while ulcers can cause this symptom, food sensitivities, inflammation, or even reactions to some over-the-counter medications can also lead to a burning feeling.

To help you out, we asked our experts at Carolina Digestive Health Associates about possible causes of a burning sensation and ways to help eliminate the symptoms.

Acid reflux or GERD

Acid reflux, or GERD, can cause a burning sensation that is often localized in the upper stomach or chest. This burning feeling occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, which lacks a protective lining to shield it from the corrosive effects of acid.

Acid reflux occurs when the valve that allows food to enter the stomach becomes overly relaxed and fails to close properly. Caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods, and spicy foods can sometimes contribute to acid reflux, which is why the burning sensation may occur shortly after a meal.

One way to help prevent acid from moving upward is to remain upright after eating rather than lying down, making it more difficult for acid to travel up the esophagus.

Stomach ulcers

Stomach ulcers can also cause a burning sensation, especially when the stomach is empty. This burning or gnawing pain is more likely to occur before meals or at night.

Ulcers are commonly linked to bacterial infections that thin the protective mucus layer that shields the stomach from its own acid. Anti-inflammatory medications can also negatively affect the stomach lining, as they block the production of prostaglandins—chemicals that help protect the lining and promote mucus production.

Gastritis or other inflammatory conditions

Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be short-lived, triggered by stress or certain foods, or it can become a chronic condition due to an underlying issue or a bacterial infection. The burning sensation associated with gastritis often occurs after eating, and the pain is usually more diffuse than the sharper, more localized pain commonly caused by ulcers.

Learn more about what’s causing your symptoms

Depending on when the burning sensation occurs, how frequently it happens, and whether you have known sensitivities, our experts may use this information to order blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies to better understand what may be causing your discomfort.

In some cases, a short course of acid-suppressing medication may be used to evaluate how your body responds and whether reducing stomach acid alone improves your symptoms.

Learn more about your symptoms and take the next step toward relief by contacting us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Belmont or Charlotte, North Carolina.