What should you know about persistent heartburn and gas?

Heartburn is a burning sensation caused when stomach contents move upwards into the food pipe. Gas, belching, and abdominal pressure can occur alongside reflux because swallowing air and digestive movement affect the same area. Acid reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia, peptic ulcer, or some medicines may be considered. Body weight can also increase pressure on the abdomen. Heartburn is not the same as every type of chest pain, so the location, timing, and associated symptoms matter.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, and remain upright after eating. Notice whether late meals, fizzy drinks, alcohol, coffee, spicy foods, or fatty foods trigger symptoms, without removing foods unnecessarily. Raise the head end of the bed if symptoms occur at night, and avoid tight clothing around the abdomen. A clinician or pharmacist can explain whether acid reflux medication is suitable and how long to use it. Review frequent use of pain relievers with a clinician because some can irritate the stomach.

Get emergency help for chest pressure or pain with sweating, breathlessness, faintness, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. Seek prompt assessment for difficulty or pain when swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or severe worsening pain. Arrange a routine review when heartburn is frequent, keeps returning, or needs regular non-prescription medicine.

Ask whether reflux, stomach irritation, or another cause fits your symptoms; whether testing is needed; which medicines may worsen them; and how to use treatment safely.