Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Heartburn

Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025

What is Heartburn?
Symptoms of Heartburn
- A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food being stuck in the throat
- Regurgitation of food or acid into the mouth
- Persistent cough or hoarseness
What causes Heartburn?
- Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal
- Being overweight or obese
- Eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods (e.g., citrus, tomatoes, chocolate)
- Smoking or drinking alcohol
- Pregnancy (due to hormonal changes)
- Stress or certain medications
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more serious form of heartburn
Risk factors for Heartburn
- Have a history of digestive issues like GERD
- Are overweight or obese
- Smoke or drink alcohol frequently
- Eat large meals or consume trigger foods
- Are pregnant or dealing with hormonal changes
- Experience high stress levels regularly
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How is Heartburn diagnosed?
- A medical history review to assess your symptoms
- A physical examination to check for signs of acid reflux
- Endoscopy to examine the esophagus and stomach if necessary
- pH monitoring to measure the acidity in your esophagus
- Barium swallow or imaging tests to rule out other issues
How is Heartburn treated?
- Antacids (e.g., Tums, Mylanta) for immediate relief
- H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine) to reduce acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for longer-term acid reduction
- Lifestyle changes like weight management, avoiding trigger foods, and eating smaller meals
- Prescription medications if necessary for GERD or more severe cases
Medications for Heartburn
- Antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate)
- H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine)
- Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole)
Can Heartburn be prevented?
- Eating smaller meals more frequently
- Avoiding trigger foods like spicy or fatty foods
- Staying upright after meals (avoid lying down immediately)
- Losing weight if necessary
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake
Managing Heartburn at home
- Eat smaller meals throughout the day
- Drink plenty of water and avoid acidic beverages like coffee and soda
- Avoid tight clothing that may put pressure on your stomach
- Use over-the-counter antacids or H2 blockers for relief
- Sleep with your head elevated to prevent acid reflux at night
When should you seek help for Heartburn?
- Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
- You experience severe chest pain or discomfort
- You have difficulty swallowing or persistent nausea
- You notice unexplained weight loss or vomiting
- Heartburn interferes with your daily activities
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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.