Heartburn results from stomach acid irritating the esophagus when the lower esophageal sphincter fails to prevent reflux. Occasional episodes are common; frequent heartburn (more than twice weekly) suggests GERD and requires medical evaluation. Short-term relief includes antacids, chew gum, and staying upright after meals. Stronger OTC and prescription options (H2 blockers, PPIs) exist, but persistent or severe symptoms merit clinician review and possible testing.

What is heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning sensation behind the breastbone that sometimes travels to the neck or throat. It is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Occasional heartburn is common; frequent episodes (more than twice a week) suggest GERD and merit evaluation.

How reflux happens

A ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) sits where the esophagus meets the stomach. The LES normally stays closed and opens only to allow swallowed food into the stomach. When the LES relaxes inappropriately or the stomach contents overwhelm it, acid can move up the esophagus and cause irritation and pain.

How common is it?

In the United States, roughly one in five adults reports heartburn at least once a week. Occasional heartburn affects many more people. Recurrent heartburn can lead to complications if untreated, so early management matters.

Quick relief and safe home measures

  • Stay upright after eating. Avoid lying down or bending for two to three hours after a meal.
  • Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can reduce heartburn. Increased saliva helps neutralize acid and clear the esophagus.
  • A glass of low-fat milk may briefly soothe symptoms for some people, but it can stimulate acid production later and is not a reliable long-term remedy.
  • Avoid home remedies that are unproven or irritating (for example, undiluted vinegar can worsen symptoms).

Over-the-counter medicines and prescription options

Antacids (e.g., calcium-carbonate products) can neutralize acid and provide quick, short-term relief. H2 blockers (famotidine) reduce acid production and work longer than antacids. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs, such as omeprazole) are stronger acid-suppressing drugs and are available OTC and by prescription.

Use OTC remedies as directed. If you need medication more than twice a week or symptoms persist despite treatment, see a clinician. Long-term PPI use should be monitored and reviewed with your provider.

Lifestyle changes that help

Small, consistent changes often reduce symptoms: lose excess weight, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and identify trigger foods (fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, spicy foods, and peppermint). Elevating the head of the bed by 6-8 inches can reduce nighttime reflux.

When to get medical help

See a doctor if you have frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, or signs of bleeding (black stools or vomiting blood). Seek emergency care right away for chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw - these can be heart-related.

Early evaluation protects the esophagus and helps tailor treatment to your needs.

FAQs about Heartburn Cure

What's the difference between heartburn and a heart attack?
Heartburn is acid-related burning in the chest. A heart attack typically causes chest pressure or crushing pain with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to the arm/jaw. Seek emergency care for any new, severe, or uncertain chest pain.
Will milk or apple cider vinegar cure heartburn?
Milk may briefly soothe some people but can increase acid later. Apple cider vinegar is unproven and can worsen symptoms. Safer short-term options are antacids or chewing sugar-free gum.
When should I see a doctor for heartburn?
See a clinician if heartburn occurs more than twice a week, persists despite OTC treatment, or comes with difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or signs of bleeding.
Can lifestyle changes really help?
Yes. Losing excess weight, quitting smoking, avoiding trigger foods, not lying down after eating, and elevating the head of the bed often reduce reflux and the need for medication.
Are over-the-counter PPIs safe long-term?
OTC PPIs are effective for many people but long-term use should be reviewed with a clinician. Studies link prolonged PPI use to certain risks, so use the lowest effective dose and reassess regularly with your provider.