hi It sounds like the symptoms may be due to gastroesophageal reflux which presents with heartburn, bloating, excess burping, feeling as though food is stuck in the esophagus, nausea, cough. The risk factors for GERD: obesity, alcohol, smoking, hiatal hernia, some medications can also worsen GERD. It is diagnosed based on history, in some cases futher tests such as imaging or monitoring of acid may be required. Treatment involves: weight loss if there is excess weight, using smaller meals, elevating the head of the bed, earlier evening meals, avoiding chocolate, alcohol, caffeinated drinks,peppermint, fatty foods, highly citrus fruits, spicy foods, carbonated drinks stop smoking if this is an issue Medications may be required if these measures are not helpful and includes antiacids (eg tums) or proton pump inhibitors (eg nexium or prilosec) or histamine antagonists (eg famotidine or cimetidine). You should speak to your doctor regarding your symptoms , he or she will examine your abdomen and likely recommend lifestyle therapy and possibly suggest medications. I hope this information is helpful