Heartburn Treatment: Quick Relief and Long‑Term Strategies

If you’ve ever felt that burning sensation after a big meal, you know how annoying heartburn can be. The good news is you don’t have to live with it forever. Below are practical ways to calm the burn now and keep it from coming back.

Quick Fixes for Immediate Relief

First, reach for an over‑the‑counter antacid. Calcium carbonate tablets (like Tums) neutralize stomach acid within minutes. If you prefer a longer‑lasting option, H2 blockers such as famotidine (Pepcid) or ranitidine work in about 30 minutes and keep acid down for several hours.

Chewing gum is another hidden hero. It makes you swallow more often, which pushes stomach acid back into the stomach where it belongs. Aim for sugar‑free gum and chew for 10‑15 minutes after eating.

Elevating your upper body while you sleep can stop nighttime burns. Place a wedge pillow or raise the head of your bed a few inches. This simple tilt uses gravity to keep acid where it should stay.

Lifestyle Changes for Long‑Term Control

Food choices matter a lot. Cut back on spicy foods, citrus, tomato‑based sauces, chocolate, coffee, and carbonated drinks. These items relax the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that blocks acid from rising.

Portion size is a silent culprit. Large meals stretch your stomach and increase pressure, forcing acid upward. Try eating smaller portions more often—five or six modest meals spread throughout the day.

Weight can be a sneaky factor. Extra belly fat pushes on the stomach, making reflux more likely. Even a modest loss of 5‑10 % of body weight often lessens heartburn symptoms.

Stress doesn’t directly cause acid, but it can worsen how you feel. Practices like deep breathing, short walks after meals, or a quick 5‑minute meditation can steady your nervous system and reduce flare‑ups.

If lifestyle tweaks and OTC meds aren’t enough, it’s time to talk to a doctor. Prescription‑strength proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole can heal the esophagus if you have frequent burns. Your doctor will also rule out GERD, ulcers, or other conditions that need specific treatment.

In short, start with quick‑acting antacids, add simple habits like gum‑chewing and bed elevation, then layer in diet, portion, and weight adjustments for lasting relief. Follow these steps and you’ll likely notice fewer burns, better sleep, and a more comfortable day‑to‑day life.