The sudden painful feeling of heartburn requires quick relief. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and causes pain in the chest and throat. Acidic contents may result in a sour taste in the back of the mouth. Avoiding large meals and certain trigger foods may help reduce heartburn, but you may still experience symptoms from time to time. Keep certain items in your home or with you in case heartburn comes up.
Antacids
Antacids provide quick, instant relief from an episode of heartburn. The over-the-counter medicines work by neutralizing acid in the stomach, FamilyDoctor.org explains. Antacids come in tablet and liquid form. Tablets in tiny packs provide fast relief because they can be carried around and taken quickly when heartburn strikes. Chewing tablets thoroughly before swallowing helps bring rapid and effective relief. Acid reducers, such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, reduce the production of stomach acid, but do not instantly relieve heartburn. They work over a longer period of time and start working within an hour to prevent heartburn. Acid reducers are available over the counter or in prescription strength.
Fruit
Bananas may have a natural antacid effect in the body to relieve heartburn. Eating a fresh banana or using ground dried banana help ease heartburn, Health911 notes. Papaya relieves heartburn because of a digestive enzyme, papain, which soothes the stomach and aids in digestion, according to World DigiBeat One Healing. You can use papaya fresh, dried or juiced. Papaya tablets and extract also ease heartburn. Other fruits may work to soothe the throat and stomach, but avoid citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes, which promote heartburn because of their acidic nature.
Vinegar
Vinegar may ease heartburn rapidly, even though it has acidic properties. Heartburn occurs when an esophageal muscle relaxes, allowing stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. The muscle usually opens as food enters the stomach and closes to prevent acid reflux. However, acid can also tighten the muscle when introduced. A quick dose of vinegar may tighten the muscle and relieve heartburn pain, according to the Nil Heartburn website. The remedy works by taking two tablespoons in a glass of water. Taking a sip of vinegar burns at first, but follows with quick relief from heartburn. Vinegar may work for certain people while others say it does not help.
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