Home remedies for extreme heartburn

Heartburn is a burning sensation caused when stomach contents move upward and irritate the food pipe. Acid reflux commonly presents with heartburn, although gastritis, a hiatus hernia or a peptic ulcer can produce upper abdominal or chest discomfort too. The sensation can overlap with heart and lung problems, so location and associated symptoms matter.

Sit or stand upright, loosen tight clothing and take small sips of water. Avoid lying down after eating, large meals, alcohol, smoking and foods that reliably trigger your symptoms. Raise the upper body during sleep rather than stacking pillows under only the head. A pharmacist can advise whether an antacid or acid reflux medication is appropriate, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant, or have kidney disease. Do not rely on repeated self-treatment for frequent or extreme symptoms.

Call emergency services for crushing or spreading chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, sweating, confusion or sudden weakness. Seek prompt medical advice if swallowing becomes difficult, food sticks, vomiting persists, vomit contains blood, stools look black, or symptoms are severe and unlike your usual pattern. Arrange a review when heartburn keeps returning or disrupts sleep.

Could reflux explain this pattern, or should another cause be checked? Which medicine is suitable for me, how long should I use it, and what symptoms mean I should stop self-care and seek help?