How do I get rid of heartburn?

The answer may not be as simple as you had hoped. Heartburn can be caused by many factors including dietary and lifestyle. Frequent or prolonged heartburn is cause for concern and your symptoms should be evaluated by a physician or healthcare professional of your choice.

How do I get rid of heartburn quickly?

An antacid or over the counter product usually works quickly to relieve the burning sensation. Herbal remedies such as fennel oil and other drops may also work quickly. Home remedies such as chewing on a chilled chunk of rhubarb or eating a bite of ice cream works for some people. If you have prolonged heartburn that does not respond to over the counter remedies, you may need a prescription medication to prevent heartburn.

How do I get rid of heartburn after a large meal?

Overeating often leads to heartburn. An over the counter or home remedy should work, but there are certain things to avoid. Being stuffed, you may feel sleepy, but lying down only worsens symptoms. Instead, take a leisurely stroll, but avoid strenuous exercise. Running, bending and stooping will worsen symptoms. Marathon runners and some other athletes often suffer from frequent or prolonged heartburn.

How do I get rid of heartburn after eating spicy foods?

No matter what you ate, any product should provide relief from occasional heartburn, but not all products work for everyone. If you know that spicy foods cause you problems, you can plan to avoid them or take a product designed to prevent heartburn before you eat them. Some over the counter products like Zantac may be taken a half an hour before a meal to prevent heartburn symptoms. People who suffer from frequent or prolonged heartburn are typically advised to avoid spicy foods and make other dietary and lifestyle changes.

How do I get rid of heartburn caused by stress?

The short answer is “relax”. Sit in a comfortable position. Loosen your clothing. Focus on your posture. Exhale, empty your lungs completely. Inhale, for a four count, hold for a four count and then exhale for a four count. Try to focus on individual muscles in the body that are tense and relax them by first flexing the muscle for ten seconds and then releasing for twenty seconds. Even the counting off of the seconds can help you relax. Stress often leads to frequent or prolonged heartburn. Fast paced lifestyles may lead to stress. Try to slow down for a few minutes before you eat and sit quietly for a few minutes after you eat. Eat slowly and chew well. Making an effort to prevent prolonged heartburn by reducing stress around mealtimes should reduce your need for antacids or other over the counter heartburn medicines.

For answers to other questions about heartburn, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com.