Natural remedies for heartburn

Heartburn is a burning sensation behind the breastbone caused by irritation from stomach contents moving upward. It is a common presentation of acid reflux, but gastritis, a hiatus hernia, and peptic ulcer disease can also cause upper digestive symptoms. The feeling alone cannot identify the cause, especially when discomfort is new or unusual.

Eat slowly, choose smaller portions, and remain upright after meals. Avoid lying down soon after eating and note whether coffee, alcohol, chocolate, mint, spicy foods, or fatty meals trigger burning. Raise the head end of the bed if symptoms disturb sleep. Avoid smoking and tight clothing around the waist. Ask a pharmacist before using antacids or supplements, particularly if you take other medicines.

See a clinician if heartburn is frequent, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by trouble swallowing, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or anaemia symptoms. Seek emergency care for severe chest pain, breathlessness, sweating, faintness, or pain spreading beyond the chest.

Ask what may be causing the burning, whether you need testing, how long self-care is suitable, and when acid reflux medication would be appropriate.