Heartburn

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does heartburn feel like?

  Heartburn typically feels like a burning or painful sensation behind the breastbone that may rise up toward the throat. You may also notice a sour or bitter taste in the back of your mouth, a feeling of food or liquid coming back up, or a sensation of pressure or tightness in the chest. The discomfort often worsens after eating, when bending over, or when lying down.

• What causes heartburn?

  Heartburn occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter — the valve between the esophagus and the stomach — does not close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back up and irritate the esophageal lining. Common food and drink triggers include large meals, fatty or fried foods, citrus fruits, tomato-based foods, chocolate, mint, coffee, alcohol, and spicy foods. Other risk factors include smoking, eating close to bedtime, carrying excess weight, pregnancy, and taking NSAIDs or certain other medications. If you experience heartburn twice a week or more, it may indicate GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and you should speak with a healthcare provider.

• How do you get rid of heartburn fast?

  For quick relief, over-the-counter antacids (such as calcium carbonate or aluminum/magnesium hydroxide) can neutralize stomach acid within minutes. Sitting upright, loosening tight clothing, and avoiding additional food or drink can also help. If antacids are not providing adequate relief, an H2 blocker or proton pump inhibitor (PPI) may work faster and last longer — a Rexall Pharmacist can recommend the right option for you or write prescription treatment, if appropriate following an assessment.

• Does milk help heartburn?

  While a cold glass of milk may provide brief, soothing relief from heartburn, this effect is temporary. Milk stimulates the stomach to produce more acid after the initial buffering effect wears off, which can actually worsen symptoms. For lasting relief, antacids or acid-reducing medications are more effective options.

• What can I drink for acid reflux?

  Plain water is the safest choice for most people with acid reflux, as it helps dilute stomach acid and clear the esophagus. Herbal teas such as ginger or chamomile (caffeine-free) may also be soothing. It is best to avoid coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages, citrus juices, and tomato juice, as these can relax the lower esophageal sphincter or increase acid production and worsen symptoms.

• How long does heartburn last?

  Occasional heartburn usually lasts anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much acid has refluxed and whether any steps are taken to relieve it. Antacids can resolve symptoms within minutes. If heartburn persists for several hours, recurs frequently, or is not responding to over-the-counter treatments, speak with a pharmacist or physician to rule out GERD or other conditions.

• What helps heartburn fast?

  Over-the-counter antacids are usually the fastest-acting remedy, neutralizing stomach acid within minutes. Sitting upright rather than lying down and drinking water can also provide quick relief. For more frequent or severe heartburn, H2 blockers (such as famotidine) or proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole) offer longer-lasting control — ask a Rexall Pharmacist which product is right for your situation.

• What is the difference between heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD?

  Acid reflux is the physical process of stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. Heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux — the burning sensation in the chest or throat that results from that acid irritating the esophageal lining. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition diagnosed when acid reflux occurs regularly (typically twice a week or more) and causes ongoing symptoms or complications. In short, heartburn is a symptom, acid reflux is the mechanism, and GERD is the long-term condition.

• What helps with heartburn at night?

  Avoiding eating within two to three hours of bedtime is one of the most effective strategies for preventing nighttime heartburn. Elevating the head of your bed by 10–20 cm (using a wedge pillow or bed risers rather than stacking regular pillows) can also help keep acid from rising while you sleep. Taking an H2 blocker or PPI in the evening, as directed by your pharmacist or doctor, can provide overnight acid control for those with more frequent symptoms.

• Can a Rexall Pharmacist prescribe for heartburn?

  In most provinces, a Rexall Pharmacist can assess your heartburn symptoms and write prescription treatment, if appropriate. They can also recommend over-the-counter products, advise on lifestyle modifications, and refer you to a physician if your symptoms suggest a more serious condition. Book Consultation at your local Rexall today.