ULCERS

An ulcer is a sore or crater in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Most ulcers develop in the stomach or in the upper part of the small intestine. Ulcers develop when something damages the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This allows stomach acid and enzymes to eat away at the wall of the stomach or upper small intestine.

HEARTBURN

Heartburn is caused by stomach acids backing up into the lower esophagus, the tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach. The medical term for heartburn is  gastroesophageal ‘reflux disease. The acids produce a burning sensation and discomfort between the ribs just below the breastbone. Another symptom is sour or bitter fluid backing up into the throat or mouth. It can occur after overeating and sometimes in reaction to medications.

Heartburn if experienced now and then  may  not  be  something to worry about, however, months of constant heartburn can injure the esophageal lining.