Hello, thanks for the query to H.C.M.Forum. Esophagus is the food pipe in our body behind sternum and any irritant food may develops esophagitis (inflammation of esophagus) which we call heart burn in simple language. Fried food , spiced dishes, smoking, alcohol, stress, tension, anxiety rotten food all these are responsible for these type of disease. When there is severe gastritis (heart burn & indigestion) than even water drinking produces severe pain sometimes it feels that some thing is stuck in throat or chest. The cause of concern is that recurrent such type of situation may lead to ulcer formation in effected area so please avoid above mentioned foods and, if condition is there , than have a treatment from a physician. Good luck. Dr. HET