What Is the Quickest Way to Get Rid of Heartburn? Treatment

Taking antacids is the quickest way to get rid of heartburn. These medications help neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief. However, overuse of antacids can cause problems such as diarrhea or chronic kidney disease, especially with aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids.

Other ways to get rid of heartburn include:

• H2 receptor blockers: These medications reduce stomach acid production and provide longer relief (up to 12 hours). Examples include Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, Zantac, and Axid AR. Long-term use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency and an increased risk of bone fractures.
• Proton pump inhibitors: These medications block acid production and help heal esophageal damage. They are stronger than H2 receptor blockers and include Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, and Zegerid. Excessive use can cause diarrhea, nausea, vitamin B12 deficiency, and an increased risk of bone fractures.
• Baclofen: This medication strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. It may cause nausea and fatigue in some people.
• Surgical procedures: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate heartburn symptoms.

What is heartburn?

Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation of the esophageal lining. The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that controls the passage of food and drink between the esophagus and the stomach. When this muscle doesn’t close completely, acid from the stomach can flow back into the throat or esophagus.

Heartburn symptoms include:

• Burning, pain, or discomfort in the breastbone (middle of the lower chest underneath the sternum) after eating. Discomfort may increase when bending over or lying flat on your back.
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) or feeling like food is stuck in the lower esophagus
• Cough or respiratory discomfort

What causes heartburn?

Heartburn may result from weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. This muscle acts as a barrier against the flow of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus. Factors that can trigger excess acid production and lead to heartburn include:

• Spicy, fatty, and heavy foods
• Acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus fruits), coffee, and chocolate
• Alcohol consumption
• Stress and lack of sleep
• Obesity, pregnancy, and menopause
• Medical conditions (diabetes, hiatal hernia, peptic ulcers, connective tissue disorders, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) and certain medications (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, blood pressure medications, etc.)

Conditions that can cause GERD include poor clearance of food or acid from the esophagus or throat, excessive stomach acid, and delayed stomach emptying.

How is acid reflux diagnosed?

If you experience heartburn 2 or more times a week, consult a gastroenterologist for a diagnosis. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to view the GI tract.
• Ambulatory acid probe test: A 24-hour probe study monitors esophageal pH levels.
• Esophageal manometry: A catheter measures pressure and movement in the esophagus.

What home remedies kill heartburn?

There are natural remedies that can help relieve heartburn and its symptoms:

• Lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle: Weight gain strains the lower esophageal sphincter and contributes to reflux.
• Don’t smoke: Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter and worsens heartburn symptoms.
• Skip carbonated beverages: They can cause burping, which sends acid into the esophagus. Drink water instead.
• Eat sparingly and slowly: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can reduce acid reflux symptoms.
• Avoid certain trigger foods: Mint, fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coffee, tea, chocolate, and alcohol can worsen reflux.
• Prop yourself up after eating: Stay upright for at least three hours after meals to prevent acid from flowing back up.
• Avoid vigorous exercise after eating: Strenuous workouts can exacerbate acid reflux.
• Check your medications: Certain medications can relax the sphincter or irritate the esophagus. Discuss with your doctor to identify and modify these medications.
• Adjust sleeping position: Elevate the head of your bed at least 30 degrees to prevent nighttime acid reflux. Avoid lying flat immediately after eating.

Here are 15 natural products that can relieve heartburn:

1. Cool water: Sipping cold water can alleviate the burning sensation.
2. Cold milk: Calcium in milk helps maintain pH balance and aids digestion.
3. Buttermilk: Its lactic acid content helps neutralize stomach acidity.
4. Ice cream: Eating ice cream can effectively combat heartburn.
5. Cinnamon: It works as a natural antacid and improves digestion.
6. Bananas: High fiber and potassium content in bananas benefit the stomach lining and prevent excess acid formation.
7. Ginger: It reduces acid levels and inflammation in the stomach.
8. Aloe vera: Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe an irritated esophagus.
9. Basil leaves: Basil stimulates mucus production, relieving heartburn.
10. Fennel seeds: Anethole in fennel relaxes the stomach walls and reduces inflammation.
11. Pineapple juice: Bromelain in pineapple juice helps control stomach acid levels.
12. Almonds: Natural oils in almonds neutralize acidity and soothe the stomach.
13. Jaggery: This sugar substitute with high magnesium content balances stomach acidity.
14. Baking soda: Mixing baking soda with water can reduce stomach acid secretion.
15. Chewing gum: Stimulating saliva production keeps acid levels down and balances pH.