Ask a doctor - How can I prevent and stop heartburn?

Q. How can I prevent and stop heartburn?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Seconmedic Expert

Heartburn is a common and uncomfortable condition that millions of people experience at some point in their lives. Generally caused by the reflux of stomach acid up into the esophagus, heartburn can be triggered by various factors such as eating acidic or spicy foods, drinking alcoholic beverages, being overweight or obese, or eating too quickly. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to both prevent and stop heartburn when it occurs.

The first step to take when looking to prevent and stop heartburn is to make lifestyle changes that will help reduce your risk for it. Exercise regularly, as this helps keep your body weight in check; eat smaller meals throughout the day rather than larger ones; avoid foods that are known triggers for heartburn like citrus fruits and spicy dishes; limit your intake of caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee and soda; cut back on alcohol consumption, especially close to bedtime; and try not to smoke if you can help it. Making these changes will go a long way toward preventing future episodes of heartburn.

In addition to altering your lifestyle habits, over-the-counter medications such as antacids (e.g., Tums), H2 blockers (e.g., Pepcid AC), or proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Prilosec) may also provide relief from occasional bouts of heartburn symptoms for those 18 years old or older who have already taken other steps listed above but still experience persistent symptoms . These medications are available without a prescription at most pharmacies across the nation so consult with your doctor beforehand if you have any questions about dosing instructions or possible interactions with other medications before taking them yourself .

Natural remedies have been used historically all around the world for digestive ailments like indigestion and acid reflux/heartburn alike include herbs like ginger root , licorice root decoction , cinnamon tea , fennel seeds , slippery elm bark powder mixed in water /milk/juice , aloe vera juice , mint leaves juice etc.. A combination approach using both conventional treatments combined with natural remedies could provide even better results than either one alone .

Finally just remember: small dietary & lifestyle modifications along with learning how best manage stress levels while utilizing OTCs & naturally medicinal herbs can be highly effective solutions towards helping alleviate uncomfortable yet sometimes mild signs/symptoms associated with frequent bouts of Heart Burn!