Magnetic Implant Could Ease GERD Symptoms, Chronic Heartburn One of the Most Common Health Conditions in U.S. (VIDEO)

For chili and Indian food lovers, Tums sometimes isn't enough to get rid of the after-burn of incredible meals. However, a new treatment option for those with chronic heartburn is here to provide some relief that medicine simply won't.

A new approach to taming stubborn cases of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), one of the most common health conditions diagnosed in the United States, reported a new device that may be able to help out.

GERD, a condition that arises when the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach fails to close properly, can cause stomach acids to splash into the esophagus.

For those with frequent heart burn-at least twice a week-they're usually hitting the pharmacy for Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium. Studies show that 60 percent of the time, this stuff works for most. However, some need more serious help.

In a study, researchers are working in the U.S. on marketing the LINX Reflux Management System by Torax Medical, Inc., which also funded the study. It is a small flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores. The magnetic attraction between the beads is intended to help the LES resist opening to gastric pressures, preventing reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. Many hope this could become a new option for the 20 to 30 million Americans who take daily medication for their GERD symptoms.

However, these symptoms can be managed in less extreme ways, including diet changes and weight loss, over-the-counter antacids or drugs called H2 blocks-brands like Zantac and Tagamet-or other courses of action that may be prescribed by your doctor.

The study is reported in the Feb. 21 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

Want to find out more about the device? Check out this video, courtesy of LINX Reflux Management System by Torax Medical, Inc.