Hello, for the past week i have been having daily heartburn. how long does it last and is there any test for it. also at what point should i make a appointment to see a gastrologist.

Flu Season: One week of symptoms is most likely to be an acute problem such as the stomach flu than a disease of significant concern. If you are not taking some antacids this can be a nice first step for an acute situation. If the situation persists then the next step is to go see your family physician.

Now: You should go ahead and see a doctor now so you can be treated and to make sure there are no other associated problems such as barrett esophagus or even gallstone which causes dyspepsia. This is also for your cancer screening if needed at this time. Also make sure they are only heartburns and nothing else.

Diet/drug: If you are taking NSAID for your arthritis, this may be the cause. Reflux is a common cause for heart burns and can be brought on by weight gain, tight clothing, spicy/fatty foods, eating too much or too late, tea, coffee etc. If the problem gets worse or lasts for than a couple of weeks, see your doctor who may or may not refer you to a gastroenterologist.

Yes there is: Evaluation and certain tests for the cause of heartburn, but at your age that is one of the masqueraders for heart disease and angina. If you can get in to see your doctor today do so. If not get over the your local ed for a rapid evaluation. Better not to sit at home and take antacids waiting to see a gastroenterologist when a good ed doctor can quickly determine if it is GI or cardiac.