10 Ways to Get Rid of Heartburn Quickly

Do you know what does heartburn feel like? Well, Heartburn, also known as acid reflux or acid indigestion, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. While occasional heartburn is common, chronic or severe cases may require medical attention. Here’s a detailed guide to help you how to get rid of heartburn.

Symptoms of Heartburn

The hallmark symptom of heartburn is a burning sensation that typically starts behind the breastbone and can radiate to the throat or neck.

Other symptoms of heartburn might include:

• Burning sensation in the chest
• Acidic or sour taste in the mouth
• Discomfort resembling chest pain (although not related to the heart)
• A sensation of stomach contents regurgitating into the throat
• Difficulty swallowing, especially over time
• Discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen
• The feeling of pressure or fullness in the chest
• Triggered by certain foods, large meals, or bending over after eating
• Frequent occurrence or persistence of symptoms

How to Get Rid of Heartburn?

Here are 10 tips on how to get rid of heartburn:

1. Dietary Adjustments

• Identify Trigger Foods: Keep track of foods that trigger your heartburn. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, fatty or fried foods, and caffeine. Limit or avoid these foods.
• Monitor Meal Size: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals rather than large, heavy ones. This prevents excess pressure on the stomach, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
• Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly: Eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly aids digestion and minimizes air swallowing, which can contribute to heartburn.
• Time Your Meals: Avoid eating right before lying down or going to bed. Aim for meals at least two to three hours before lying down.

2. Posture and Activity

• Stay Upright After Meals: Remaining upright for a few hours after eating helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
• Elevate Your Head: Elevate the head of your bed by about 6-8 inches. This helps keep stomach acid down while sleeping.

3. Clothing and Habits

• Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on the abdomen and increase the risk of heartburn. Opt for loose-fitting attire.
• Avoid Bending Over:  Avoid bending over or stooping right after you eat. This makes your stomach feel better.

4. Natural Remedies

• Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which can neutralize stomach acid and soothe heartburn.
• Baking Soda Solution: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water. Drink it slowly to help neutralize acid, but use this sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

5. Over-the-Counter Medications

• Antacids:  Antacids available over-the-counter reduce acidity in the stomach and alleviate symptoms quickly. Follow dosage instructions and consult a pharmacist if you have any concerns.
• H2 Blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid production. Consult a doctor before using them for prolonged periods.

6. Lifestyle Changes

• Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing acid to flow back into the esophagus. Quitting smoking can help alleviate heartburn.
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Alcohol can relax the LES and contribute to acid reflux. Moderate your alcohol consumption.

7. Stress Management

• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in stress-reduction practices such as deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.

8. Hydration

• Stay Hydrated: Keep your body hydrated by drinking lots of water. Proper hydration helps dilute stomach acid.

9. Sleep Habits:

• Sleep Position: If you experience nighttime heartburn, sleep on your left side to keep the acid in your stomach.

10. Professional Advice:

• Consult a Doctor: If your heartburn is frequent, severe, or not responding to lifestyle changes, seek medical advice. A doctor can diagnose any underlying conditions and provide appropriate treatment options. You can also ask questions to your doctor on how to get rid of heartburn quickly.

Remember that individual responses vary, and it may take time to find the best strategies for managing your heartburn. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Conclusion

Managing and alleviating heartburn involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and possibly medical interventions. By understanding the causes and triggers of heartburn, you can take proactive steps to reduce its impact on your daily life.

Taking proactive steps to manage heartburn can greatly improve your comfort and overall well-being. However, if you’re unsure about your symptoms or need guidance, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and expert recommendations.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)