burning in chest

im a 21 year old male, during heavy stress i get burning sensation in my chest, right under the skin(in the front), in middle of breastbone about 1 inch in diameter. feels like sunburn is being concentrated in that area. the description seems to fit heartburn but once i get it it takes anywhere from a couple days to a couple weeks to leave. always comes on during heavy stress. my question is , is this heart burn? why does it take so long to leave? i read people getting instant relief..is my esophagus being damaged? what is happening exactly

[Ratnakar ., MD]

Hi,
Burning sensation behind the breastbone could be heartburn. Stress usually worsens it.
Medications and lifestyle modifications will help in relief. If esophagus is damaged you will feel pain while swallowing.
An upper GI endoscopy may be done to see whether esophagus is damaged.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.