Chronic or Severe Heartburn: The Causes and Ways to Treat It Most people experience a mild case of heartburn. And, only a small percentage of the adult population suffers from what is called a chronic or severe heartburn. Basically, chronic heartburn is where the problem lasts for long periods of time and it occurs with a much greater frequency. For starters, you need to know what causes heartburn in order for you to have an idea on how to manage it. Basically, heartburn is caused when stomach acid refluxes or backs up in to the esophagus. This can occur for several reasons. The first is that it may be because of a weakened lower esophageal sphincter or LES. Leaving chronic heartburn untreated can lead to more severe complications that will significantly have a negative effect on your life. So, what causes heartburn and why should you take it seriously? For starters, heartburn happens when the stomach acid refluxes or backs up in to the esophagus. This can happen because of several reasons. Baking soda is also a great way to treat heartburn. Drink water with baking soda that next time you feel the symptoms of heartburn. However, although this will help ease the pain as it will neutralize the acid in your stomach, it is only a short term solution. Aloe Vera juice can also help in neutralizing acid in the stomach. By cutting down on alcohol, you will be able to improve your condition and reduce the frequency of heartburn you experience. Lastly, you should try drinking a cup of green tea once every day. This will help get rid of toxins inside your stomach and significantly reduce the amount of stomach acid being produced. Chronic heartburn is also a sign or symptom of a more serious condition called GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Frequent heartburn will prevent you from living normally. It will limit your daily activities and it can also lead to further complications, such as ulcers in your esophagus and Barrett s esophagus.