Heartburn occurs when stomach acid and other stomach contents back up into the esophagus. The delicate, irritated lining of the lower esophagus responds and causes pain and burning, which strike the sufferer in the middle of the chest. Seek medical advice to avoid serious long-term complications such as esophageal cancer, if you have heartburn weekly or more often. Home remedies often help the occasional heartburn sufferer. They can also complement your medical treatment from your doctor.
Baking Soda
Drugs.com reports that drinking a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 8 oz. of water as soon as the heartburn begins may be effective for treating occasional heartburn. This should help to neutralize the acid and relieve the burning sensation. Get your physician's approval prior to using baking soda if you take prescription medications or have any chronic health conditions. It is best to only use this method infrequently; consult your physician for guidance if you have heartburn more than twice a week. Baking soda is not recommended for use by children without a doctor's approval.
Antacids
Over-the-counter antacids in liquid or tablet form can relieve many cases of mild heartburn. Calcium carbonate is usually considered to be the safest antacid but magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide are also commercially available and safe for most people. The American Academy of Family Physicians does not recommend taking products containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide at the same time. Get your doctor's permission before taking these products if you have a chronic health condition or take a prescription medicine.
Stand or Sit After Meals
The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that it may be helpful to stand upright or remain seated after eating. Eat slowly, chew well and take time to relax during your meal. Avoid eating on the run. These simple modifications to your behavior during and after a meal can help you prevent an attack of heartburn.
Eat Small Meals
Larger meals naturally fill your stomach with more contents. For a frequent heartburn sufferer, this is often enough to induce a bout of heartburn. Instead, opt to eat smaller, more frequent meals each day. For example, you may wish to divide out your lunch by eating a salad and then having a chicken breast with rice two hours later. Consume dessert at least one hour after your meal.
Take Special Care at Bedtime
Avoid eating within three hours of bedtime. Try resting in a chair for the first few hours for two nights in a row if you get heartburn most nights of the week. When you do not have heartburn while resting in the chair, your heartburn may be largely positional. For this case, elevate the head of your bed with blocks.
Change Your Diet
Pay attention to the foods you have eaten prior to an attack of heartburn. Typical offenders include caffeinated beverages, spicy foods, fried foods, processed tomatoes, vinegar products, alcohol, decaffeinated coffee and high-fat foods. Avoid the foods and beverages that trigger your symptoms.
Reduce Your Stress
Stress may trigger or worsen heartburn. Frequent heartburn sufferers should explore stress reduction options, such as getting a slow massage. Mayo Clinic also recommends aromatherapy to reduce everyday stress and tension. For a quick stress-reducer, play soft music while relaxing in a comfortable chair. Then, visualize one of your favorite scenes, such as an abandoned beach or a gentle snowfall in the country, as you slowly calm your breathing.
