Medicine to stop heartburn

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone caused when stomach contents move upward and irritate the food pipe. Acid reflux, a hiatus hernia, gastritis or a peptic ulcer may produce similar upper-abdominal or chest discomfort. A medicine that helps one cause may not address another, so recurring symptoms deserve assessment rather than repeated self-treatment.

A pharmacist may suggest an antacid or alginate for occasional symptoms, or an acid-reducing medicine when symptoms are frequent. Take products exactly as directed and check spacing from other medicines because antacids can affect absorption. Smaller meals, avoiding lying down soon after eating, and identifying personal triggers such as rich meals, alcohol or smoking may help. Do not rely on non-prescription treatment for ongoing symptoms without a review.

Get emergency help for chest pressure, pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, sweating, faintness or breathlessness, because these symptoms can signal a heart problem rather than reflux. Seek prompt medical advice for vomiting blood, black stools, trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss or severe abdominal pain. Arrange a review if heartburn repeatedly returns or wakes you at night.

Record when symptoms occur, what you had eaten, and any medicines or supplements you use. Ask whether your pattern fits reflux, how long to try a treatment, and whether another condition or medicine could be contributing.