Anyone who's ever had heartburn knows how unpleasant it can be. Stomach acids back up into the esophagus, irritate the sensitive lining and cause a sensation that can range from mild discomfort to searing pain. Fortunately, steps can be taken to help relieve the effects of both acute heartburn, to put out the fire immediately, and chronic heartburn, which may be a result of poor diet, posture or stress.
Baking Soda
In a pinch, a quick home treatment for acute heartburn can be quickly mixed up with one-half teaspoon of baking soda in 8 oz. of water. When swallowed, this combination will almost immediately react with acids in the stomach, neutralizing them and preventing further painful irritation. The reaction between the baking soda and the acids releases carbon dioxide, which can be expelled from the stomach by burping.
Antacids
Calcium-based antacids, such as Tums or Rolaids, are effective at quickly treating heartburn symptoms by neutralizing stomach acids. Other antacids, including Maalox and Mylanta, protect the lining of the stomach and esophagus by coating their surfaces, preventing irritation from stomach acids.
Herbal Remedies
Certain medicinal herbs may help with reducing the effects of heartburn. Ginger root has a long history of calming stomach troubles. Others, such as peppermint, turmeric, papaya, licorice, gentian, fennel, caraway, dill and chamomile all have relaxing effects on the digestive tract and may help to reduce the irritation of heartburn.
Diet
There's no doubt that certain foods can trigger heartburn in many people. Some, such as tomato sauce, orange juice or alcohol, irritate the lining of the stomach and esophagus, while others, such as chocolate or caffeinated beverages, may relax the sphincter that prevents stomach acids from entering into the esophagus. The carbonation in certain beverages can also contribute to the discomfort. Avoiding these foods or limiting the amount eaten may help.
Overeating
Also, heartburn may occur if the stomach is filled to capacity due to overeating. Controlling the amount of food eaten can significantly reduce the risk of a heartburn episode. Excessive weight can also place pressure on the stomach, forcing acids into the esophagus. Maintaining a healthy weight can often eliminate heartburn problems.
Stress Reduction
Heartburn symptoms can be aggravated by anxiety and stress. Relaxation techniques, exercise and simply taking time to enjoy life and not worry excessively about daily demands can help to reduce the effects of heartburn.
Posture
Lying down when not feeling well is instinctive. However, this may allow stomach acids to wash into the esophagus more easily, causing further irritation. For those who suffer chronic heartburn, it may help to eat earlier, so the stomach is emptier at bedtime. Elevating the head of the bed four to six inches may also help reduce the likelihood of irritation from stomach acids.
Over-the-counter Medications
Many over-the-counter treatments are currently available for heartburn. These include medications that reduce acid production, such as Tagamet, Pepcid AC, Zantac, Prilosec and Prevacid. While these medications do not work quickly, they do provide long-lasting relief and are available without prescription.
