What can cause a burning sensation in my esophagus?

Not all GERD = burn: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (gerd) involves movement of stomach contents back into your esophagus. Gerd can be "silent" in a substantial # of patients, manifesting with ear/nose/throat & lung problems without heartburn. Heartburn is the common presentation of burning discomfort in your chest with exposure of the esophagus to stomach contents. See earlier healthtap answers for gerd prevention.