70 million or more Americans are affected by heartburn every year. What is this disease all about? The burning sensation in the upper regions of the abdomen marks the beginning of heartburn. Gradually it spreads to the chest then heads for the back of the throat and at times even reaches the jaws, arms and the back. Lying down or bending forward in such a situation can only make one feel worse.

When stomach acid makes its way to the esophagus, it causes chest pain and this is how the problem got its name “heartburn”. The chest pain is similar to angina but heartburn has no connection to the heart.

Remedies for Heartburn

OTC or over-the-counter medication is the most common way of dealing with this condition. There are a lot of varieties of antacids available, in form of tablets, liquids and foams. You will also get medicines of different potencies. Antacid usually contains certain active agents like calcium carbonate, magnesium, aluminum hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate.

Antacids provide almost immediate respite from heartburn. The burning sensation in the esophagus subsides. Antacids, however, do not prevent further production of acids. So, the problem can come back again and again, even after you consume an antacid.

Antacids are usually helpful if had within 1 to 3 hours after having a meal. If this dose is proved to be ineffective, then the patient must consult a physician. There are many factors that determine the effectiveness of the antacid. These include the state of the digestive tract, what was ingested and the quantity taken.

Some antacids have sodium bicarbonate and are not recommended for those with high BP or those on a sodium-restricted diet. Similarly antacids with calcium carbonate can be harmful for those with kidney stones as calcium is not good for this ailment. Calcium carbonate antacids might restrict acid increase in the start but the calcium will start acting and actually increase the stomach acids.

It is a myth that milk is an effective antidote to heartburn. Initially, drinking milk does help but after a while the protein and calcium in the milk only increase the production of acid. And the person suffering from heartburn will find a worse heartburn after half an hour of drinking milk.

Preventing heartburn:

A few steps would go long way in limiting heartburn. Let us check out some of those.
• Notice the drinks or food items that trigger your heartburn and avoid them.
• Consuming caffeine, drinking alcohol and smoking are all bad for heartburn, avoid them.
• Chocolate and chocolate-based food items should also be avoided.
• If you are heavy, shed those extra pounds as they can cause heartburn.
• Don’t gobble down food fast, chew well and eat your food slowly.
• Avoid extremely hot or cold food or drink.
• Eat dinner at least 4 hours before you hit the bed.
• Try to stay stress-free.
• Place 6-inch blocks under the bed instead of pillows. These are said to prevent nighttime heartburn.