Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following heartburn-related questions:

1. What is heartburn?
   
   
2. How common is heartburn?
   
   
3. What is causing my heartburn?
   
   
4. When I get heartburn, I sometimes feel as if I am having a heart attack. How can I tell the difference?
   
   
5. Is there a chance I may have gastroesophageal reflux disease?
   
   
6. Are there lifestyle changes that I can make that may reduce my risk of getting heartburn?
   
   
7. What type of medication should I take to treat my heartburn?
   
   
8. Is the medication available over the counter or do I need a prescription?
   
   
9. What should I do if the medication does not work?
   
   
10. Under what circumstances may surgery be necessary?