I am 15 years old and, unfortunately, I have heartburn just about every day. The doctor put me on Prilosec. I have to admit it has helped, but still many things give me heartburn. My dad also has to take Prilosec. Is heartburn hereditary?

Jenna

Heartburn, which doctors refer to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is very common, with up to 15 percent of people suffering an episode at least once a month. So far, research has not uncovered any hereditary links to GERD.

What we do know is that GERD symptoms are caused by the stomach's acid refluxing up into the esophagus because of an abnormally loose valve (sphincter) between the esophagus and stomach. This sphincter also sometimes loosens up when you consume certain foods, including fatty foods, coffee, chocolate, alcohol and peppermint. Untreated reflux can become severe with inflammation in the esophagus resulting in ulcers, scars (strictures) and possibly even esophageal cancer.

The advent of drugs to suppress production of stomach acid has resulted in successful treatment of GERD. The newest medications available for this purpose are the proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). Drugs in this class include omeprazole (Prilosec) and lansoprazole (Prevacid). The PPIs improve heartburn and other symptoms in about 90 percent of GERD patients. However, many patients find that their symptoms return soon after they stop the medications.

It is important to understand that GERD is a chronic disease that often requires continuous daily treatment. Many young patients do not want to take medications their entire lives. Another option for such people is a surgical procedure known as fundoplication. In this operation, the doctor essentially wraps the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to tighten the sphincter area and prevent reflux from occurring. If done correctly, this procedure has a 90 percent or better success rate. You should talk with a gastroenterologist about your options for managing your condition over the long term.