Things to help heartburn

Heartburn is a burning feeling behind the breastbone caused by stomach contents moving upwards into the food pipe. It may leave a sour taste and can be worse after eating, bending or lying down. Acid reflux is a common cause, but gastritis, a hiatus hernia or a peptic ulcer can produce upper abdominal or chest discomfort too. Heartburn by itself does not establish one diagnosis.

Choose smaller meals, eat slowly and note which foods or drinks trigger symptoms. Common triggers include rich or fatty meals, spicy foods, coffee, alcohol and chocolate, although patterns differ. Stay upright after eating and avoid lying down soon afterwards. Raise the upper end of your sleeping position if night symptoms continue, and avoid tight clothing around the waist. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether acid reflux medication is appropriate and how it should be taken.

Seek urgent help for crushing or severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools or sudden weakness. Arrange a medical review when heartburn is frequent, worsening, associated with difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, repeated vomiting or persistent cough, or when self-care does not help. Do not keep treating recurring symptoms without checking the cause.

Ask whether your symptoms fit reflux, whether another condition should be excluded, and which medicine, dose and duration are suitable for you.