Device May Help Chronic Heartburn

An implanted magnetic device could be the key to relief for those affected by chronic heartburn.

FOX News Radio’s Bill Vitka reports:

20 million Americans suffer chronic heartburn. They can’t get enough help from medicine. For them a tiny magnetic bracelet may provide relief. It’s called Linx and its implanted at the base of the throat.

While medication addresses the symptoms of heartburn, the new gear aims to fight the underlying cause of acid reflux: weak muscles above the stomach which allow acid to seep into the esophagus.

The magnets reinforce the muscles. The bracelet is $5,000. The surgery costs more. More than nine-out-of-ten people who undergo it report improvement. The device is FDA approved.

Bill Vitka, FOX News Radio.