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Agewell Healthcare Sep 24, 2023 at 17:00 PM
How to treat heartburn
Diagnosis
To determine if your heartburn is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), your doctor may recommend:
- X-ray, to view the shape and condition of your esophagus and stomach.
- Endoscopy, to view your esophagus with a tiny camera to check for irregularities. A tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for analysis.
- Ambulatory acid probe tests, to identify when, and for how long, stomach acid backs up into your esophagus. An acid monitor that is placed in your esophagus connects to a small computer that you wear around your waist or on a strap over your shoulder.
- Esophageal motility testing, to measure movement and pressure in your esophagus.
Treatment
Many nonprescription medications can help relieve heartburn. The options include:
- Antacids, which help neutralize stomach acid. Antacids may provide quick relief. But they can't heal an esophagus damaged by stomach acid.
- H2 blockers, which can reduce stomach acid. H2 blockers don't act as quickly as antacids, but they may provide longer relief. Examples include cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and famotidine (Pepcid AC).
- Proton pump inhibitors, which also can reduce stomach acid. Examples include esomeprazole (Nexium 24HR), lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC).
If nonprescription treatments don't work or you rely on them often, see your health care provider. You may need prescription medication and further testing.
8 home remedies for heartburn
- Keep a food journal and avoid trigger foods. ...
- Avoid lying flat right after eating. ...
- Resist the urge to overeat or eat quickly. ...
- Take steps to lose weight if you are overweight. ...
- Elevate the head of your bed. ...
- Adjust your sleep position. ...
- Wear loose-fitting clothing. ...
- Stop smoking if you smoke
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