# Persistent heartburn: causes and when to see a doctor

_Persistent heartburn: what it can be linked to, how urgent it is and what to do next. Kenya guidance from My Wellness Health._

Canonical: https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/symptoms/persistent-heartburn

Author: My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by: the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026

Last updated: 7 Oct 2026 · Published by My Wellness Health — Preventive Healthcare & Care Navigation

> Heartburn is common and usually linked to reflux. Heartburn most days for weeks, or heartburn that medicines do not help, can damage the food pipe over time and should be checked. See a clinician if it lasts more than three weeks or comes with swallowing problems or weight loss.

**Persistent heartburn: what to do**

| How urgent | What a clinician will check | How we help | Fee |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| See a clinician if it lasts more than three weeks or comes with swallowing problems or weight loss. | A review of your symptoms and, if needed, an endoscopy. | Cancer risk assessment | Cancer risk assessments, KES 300 |

## Persistent heartburn: common questions

**Q: What can cause persistent heartburn?**

A: Heartburn is common and usually linked to reflux. Heartburn most days for weeks, or heartburn that medicines do not help, can damage the food pipe over time and should be checked.

**Q: When should I see a doctor?**

A: See a clinician if it lasts more than three weeks or comes with swallowing problems or weight loss.

**Q: What will the doctor check?**

A: A review of your symptoms and, if needed, an endoscopy.

**Q: Does persistent heartburn mean I have cancer?**

A: Usually not, but it is worth getting checked so a clinician can find the cause. Only an examination and tests can tell.

**Q: How can My Wellness Health help?**

A: My Wellness Health's cancer risk assessment (Cancer risk assessments, KES 300) looks at your symptoms, history and lifestyle and gives you a personalised risk report with clear next steps. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours to help you book any screening you need at a facility that suits your budget and location. Assessment fees do not include tests or consultations at the facility.

This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.

## Sources

- [My Wellness Health](https://www.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/)
- [NHS, Oesophageal cancer symptoms](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/oesophageal-cancer/symptoms/)
- [Ministry of Health Kenya, National Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis Guidelines](https://www.iccp-portal.org/resources/national-cancer-screening-and-early-diagnosis-guidelines)

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- [Difficulty swallowing: causes and when to worry](https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/symptoms/difficulty-swallowing)
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