Heartburn is common and often stubborn. Many people recognise the burning behind the breastbone or an acidic taste in the mouth. Most often it is caused by stomach acid moving up into the oesophagus, and self-care often helps.
For occasional heartburn, an antacid or alginate is often enough. If the symptom returns several times a week, a short course of a proton pump inhibitor may make sense. Small lifestyle changes, such as a lighter evening meal and enough time between eating and going to bed, support the treatment.
Choose by the rhythm of the symptom#
If heartburn is rare and clearly tied to one meal, quick relief is often enough. If the symptom appears especially when lying down or at night, a mechanical barrier may help. If it comes back several times a week, a more planned short course and a look at the cause are needed.
What causes heartburn#
Heartburn happens when stomach acid moves into the oesophagus. A valve between the stomach and oesophagus is meant to keep acid down, but it can relax briefly or stomach pressure can push acid upward.
Heavy or fatty meals slow stomach emptying. Late eating leaves the stomach active when you lie down. Body weight, smoking, coffee, alcohol and some spices can also add to the symptom. Some medicines may contribute as well.
Three common self-care options#
Antacids#
Antacids neutralise acid that is already in the stomach. They act quickly but usually for only a short time.
Alginates#
Alginates form a protective layer on top of the stomach contents, which helps reduce the rise of acid into the oesophagus. They are often useful in the evening and at night.
Proton pump inhibitors#
Proton pump inhibitors reduce acid production. They are not usually the fastest first aid, but they are effective when used regularly in a short course.
Is it occasional heartburn or reflux disease#
Occasional heartburn is tied to a clear trigger such as a heavy meal or late eating. It usually settles with self-care. If symptoms happen several times a week, disturb sleep repeatedly or make eating difficult, reflux disease may be the better explanation.
Small changes that help many people#
Often the timing makes a big difference. A lighter evening meal, enough time between eating and going to bed and a slightly raised head end of the bed can calm night symptoms. Smaller portions and slower eating help many people too.
One common mistake is to rely only on medicine and forget the triggers. Another is to stop treatment too early when the symptom eases, then start again when it returns.
When to seek care#
Seek care if swallowing hurts, food feels stuck, weight drops without a clear reason, or vomit contains blood. Seek immediate care if chest pain is strong or comes with shortness of breath.
Further reading and sources#
Further reading: