Heartburn after COVID: possible causes and relief

During or after an illness, eating patterns, reduced activity, coughing, stress, and medicines can change how the stomach and food pipe behave. Heartburn is a burning sensation caused by stomach contents moving upward; it does not by itself show that COVID caused a new digestive condition. Symptoms may also reflect [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) or [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/), so the timing and associated symptoms matter.

Choose smaller meals, drink fluids regularly, and stay upright after eating. Avoid foods and drinks that clearly trigger burning, and do not lie flat immediately after a meal. Review any new medicines with a pharmacist rather than stopping prescribed treatment on your own. Keep a short symptom diary showing meals, medicines, coughing, and night symptoms. An [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/) discussion may be useful if symptoms recur.

Seek urgent help for severe chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. Contact a clinician promptly for difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, blood in vomit, black stools, dehydration, or symptoms that do not settle as recovery progresses. A [Hiatus Hernia](/conditions/hiatus-hernia/) or [Peptic Ulcer](/conditions/peptic-ulcer/) may need consideration when symptoms persist.

Ask whether a recent medicine could be irritating your stomach, whether your symptoms fit reflux, and how long to try self-care before review.