Your symptom is likely related to the gastric acid within your stomach which many will describe as a "burning" sensation. Gastric acid is required for proper digestion of food and it also serve as our 1st line of defense against ingested pathogens. Normally, gastric acid production follows a certain rhythm in the body and more acid is produced in our stomach during meal times.
When this secretion rhythm is disturbed for whatever reason, the excessive acid in the stomach may give rise to the sensation you described. In some cases, a sensitive stomach may also feel the "burning" with normal amount of acid.
One simple trick you can try is to take smaller portions of food more regularly thereby reducing your acid exposure time with an empty stomach. Over the counter antacid may also help with the symptoms. Try avoiding strong pain killers and alcohol which are known irritants to the stomach lining.
If the above tips do not help much, you should pay a visit to your doctor to see if further test is required. Do note that worsening symptoms or symptoms associated with nocturnal pain, weight loss, black stools or vomiting requires immediate attention from your doctor.
- Dr Quan
