Causes Of Heartburn During Pregnancy

When a pregnancy is announced in the life of a family it is often met with a joyous reaction. This is because a new life will be brought into the world and is a reflection of a love shared between two individuals.

However, the process of a pregnancy normally takes nine months and during this course of nine months a number of unpleasant things occur. For example there may be for the woman a weight gain, retention of water, back pain, etc.

In addition, the pregnancy may bring on episodes of heartburn. Therefore, it is important to know what heartburn is and what some causes of heartburn during a pregnancy are.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is that uncomfortable condition in which acid from the stomach is released backwards and flows upward into the esophagus and sometimes into the mouth. The actual burning is caused by the reflux of hydrochloric acid into the sensitive esophageal area where the tissue is unprotected and is literally burned by the affects of the acid.



The location of heartburn is usually in the middle of the chest right underneath the sternum or breastbone. In addition, associated pain is not only a burning sensation that is experienced in the esophagus, but may extend upwards into the throat and jaw area

There are a number of common causes of heartburn. Some of those common causes of heartburn can include an individual’s choice of lifestyle. Some of those lifestyle choices could be the spicy food that they eat or the way that the food is prepared or the food that is actually consumed. In addition, heartburn can be attributed to all of these factors or combination of factors.

Also, heartburn can be caused by an individual’s consumption of too much alcohol, smoking or use of other tobacco products. In addition, another contributing factor to heartburn can be if an individual is overweight. This excess weight can put too much strain upon the stomach which allows the leakage of hydrochloric acid back up into the esophagus.

One other factor that may cause heartburn is a non-functioning sphincter muscle which is located at the top of the stomach. If this sphincter muscle is weakened or loses its elasticity, this condition may allow the leakage of hydrochloric acid back up into the esophagus.

What Are Some Causes Of Heartburn During Pregnancy

One other contributing factor to heartburn can be when a woman gets pregnant. Specifically, causes of heartburn during pregnancy can be attributed to a number of factors. Generally, heartburn occurs during the third trimester of a woman’s pregnancy.

One of the major causes of heartburn during pregnancy is due to the fact that the pregnant woman’s hormones cause many physical changes. One of those physical changes is that the stomach sphincter located at the top of the stomach relaxes. This relaxation allows the acid to flow upwards into the esophagus.

In addition another common cause of heartburn during pregnancy is due to the fact that the stomach is not as active when the woman is pregnant as it is when she is not pregnant. Therefore, this sluggishness slows down the digestive process and allows for excess hydrochloric acid to remain in the stomach. The excess acid needs to be released and unfortunately that excess is released backwards into the esophagus.

One other major cause of heartburn during pregnancy is the fact that the DV begins to develop and grow within the others won’t. This growing of the child in the womb begins to crowd the abdomen which can then precipitate a heartburn condition.


Read more...

Natural Medicine For Heartburn

If an individual experiences an episode of heartburn or suffers from chronic heartburn, it is important that they are treated for this condition. There are a number of reasons why this treatment should be sought.

One of the major reasons for finding heartburn relief from heartburn is that this can be a painful experience. This is because the major cause of heartburn is the reflux of stomach acid back up through the esophagus and sometimes into the mouth. This uncomfortable process not only causes pain in the esophagus, but the pain can radiate upwards into the jaw as well.

In addition, another reason why an individual should seek treatment for this condition is that if heartburn is left unchecked it may eventually ulcerate the esophagus which in turn may lead to cancer.

Therefore it is important that the individual seek treatment for heartburn. This heartburn treatment can be done in a number of ways. Two of those ways include changing one’s lifestyle, and using natural medicine for heartburn.

Changing Lifestyle

One of the most effective ways of dealing with heartburn and is a natural remedy for heartburn is the commitment to change one’s lifestyle. Specifically, the particular lifestyle choices that can lead to heartburn can include a number of choices by the individual.

For example one lifestyle choice that can determine whether an individual suffers heartburn or not is if they overeat. Generally, this overeating causes an individual to put on weight which in turn causes undue stress on the stomach. When this condition occurs then there can be a release of acid up into the esophagus due to the pressure of the weight on the stomach.

Another lifestyle choice that can lead to heartburn is an excessive use of alcohol or tobacco. The use of one or both of these products has demonstrated a resulting affect of heartburn in the individual.

Another lifestyle choice that can lead to heartburn in an individual is the eating of certain food or how they are prepared. Specifically, if individual uses excessive spice on their food this can lead to heartburn. Additionally, if an individual eats foods that are high in fat content or chooses to fry their foods in preparation for eating, this too can lead to heartburn.

Use Of Natural Medicine For Heartburn

Additionally, another popular treatment method for this condition is the use of natural medicine for heartburn. The benefits of using natural medicine for heartburn are that the substances that are used to treat heartburn have no hidden chemical substances and therefore do not exacerbate the situation.

Specific examples of natural medicine for heartburn can include the use of ginger. This remedy can be utilized by simply boiling in 2 cups of water a partial part of the ginger root. Once the water has been brought to a boil, then the liquid can be ingested as if one was drinking tea.

Another example of natural medicine for heartburn is by following practical steps to minimize the reflux of acid into the esophagus. Some of those natural steps would be for the individual to sleep on their left side, drink copious amounts of cold water to dilute the acid in one’s stomach, eat small meals frequently to minimize the excess production of acid, etc.

Read more...

The Best Heartburn Medicine for You

Heartburn is a common problem that faces almost everyone at one time or another. Although heartburn is rarely a serious condition, it can be painful enough to get in the way of daily activities. In some cases, the burning becomes so intense; it is mistaken for the heartburn symptoms of a heart attack. Whether you suffer from heartburn once a week or once in a blue moon, there are effective methods to relieve the painful symptoms. You can head to the pharmacy or talk to your doctor about the best heartburn medicine for you.

What is Heartburn?

Before heading out to choose the best heartburn medicine for your needs, it helps to understand why heartburn occurs in the first place. At the base of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, there is a muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, or LES. The LES will open up to let food pass into the stomach and then close again to keep digestive acids and partially digested food in the stomach where it belongs. In some cases, the LES will not close properly, allowing some of that acid and food to back up into the esophagus. When the delicate esophageal lining comes in contact with the potent stomach acid, burning and pain result. This condition is what is known as heartburn.



The best heartburn medicine will probably affect the stomach acid in some way, whether to neutralize or reduce acid or to block its production completely. The best heartburn medicine for you will depend in part on how severe and frequent your symptoms are and how effectively simple lifestyle and dietary changes will keep those symptoms under control. In some cases, the best heartburn medicine will also allow for healing of the esophagus, if the lining has been damaged due to frequent exposure to harmful digestive acids. Most of the time, an over the counter heartburn medicine will do the trick.

The fastest heartburn medicine is usually an antacid, which will immediately begin neutralizing the acid in the stomach to bring relief to heartburn symptoms. For many, this is the best heartburn medicine because it is fast acting and easy to carry with them. However, others need longer relief than an antacid will provide. In these situations, the best heartburn medication will be one that reduces stomach acid, such as Pepcid, to bring longer lasting relief from painful symptom. If damage to the esophagus has been diagnosed, the best heartburn medicine will be a proton pump inhibitor that will block acid production and give the esophagus time to heal.

Heartburn can be a painful condition, especially if you are experiencing it frequently. Fortunately, by choosing the best heartburn medicine for your needs, you can keep heartburn – and its painful symptoms – under control.


Read more...

Heartburn Natural Relief With Lifestyle Changes

Heartburn affects nearly everyone at one time or another. If you have ever been the victim of that painful burning sensation and sour taste in the back of the throat, you can certainly understand how uncomfortable it would be to deal with this condition on a consistent basis. However, for those suffering with recurrent heartburn, there is help available.

Methods of heartburn natural relief combine mostly lifestyle and dietary changes to prevent those painful episodes in the first place. If heartburn is getting in the way of your daily activities, read on for tips on heartburn natural relief that will keep those heartburn symptoms at bay.

You are What you Eat

Food choices are the first line of defense in heartburn natural relief. By learning which foods trigger the painful symptoms, you can take an active role in preventing heartburn. Common culprits include tomato products, chocolate, alcoholic beverages and spicy foods. To help you identify your specific triggers, keep a food journal for a few weeks.



Write down everything you eat and the days you experience heartburn symptoms. After a period of time, you may begin to see a pattern develop. Avoiding foods that cause the symptoms is one of the easiest methods of heartburn natural relief. On the other hand, if you know a particular food will result in symptoms, you can keep a roll of antacids on hand for fast heartburn relief when you simply can't say no to those green chili enchiladas at your favorite Mexican restaurant.

Developing Good Habits

Other lifestyle changes can also bring effective heartburn natural relief. For example, lying down after eating can cause the pressure to build up in the digestive tract. Avoid eating too close to bedtime, and don't lie down to rest right after a meal. If heartburn is keeping you up at night, another form of heartburn natural relief is to raise the head of the bed a few inches. You can also reduce your portion sizes to reduce the pressure on the stomach. Instead of eating three big meals a day, try adapting your routine to five or six smaller meals. Wearing tight clothing or bending over after meals can also increase the odds that heartburn symptoms will appear.

Kicking Bad Habits

In addition to developing good habits, you can make a point to kick some bad ones. Since alcoholic and caffeinated beverages tend to bring on heartburn symptoms, avoid those drinks as much as possible. Nicotine is another culprit of heartburn, so recurring symptoms is another good reason to kick the smoking habit. Excess weight can also put undue strain on the digestive system and result in painful heartburn symptoms, so get up and moving and drop the extra pounds. Avoiding these bad habits is a healthy method of heartburn natural relief.

Heartburn is an uncomfortable condition that can get in the way of daily life when it is experienced too frequently. With these methods of heartburn natural relief, you can cut down on your painful symptoms before they begin.


Read more...

The Best Treatment For Heartburn – Natural Or Medical?

If you suffer from heartburn, you want the best heartburn treatment for it. Heartburn hurts – and no one should suffer unnecessarily. But what’s the best treatment? That depends on who you ask. Most doctors agree that if you can get by without using a prescription medicine, so much the better. Home heartburn remedies are definitely something to try before running in to the doctor for a prescription particularly if your heartburn treatment isn’t for a chronic condition.

Home Remedies – The Natural Solution

One of the best treatment for heartburn that is a home remedy is to use baking soda. Baking soda is “sodium bicarbonate”, an alkaline, that can neutralize the acids in the stomach to relieve the burn of heartburn. It is easy to find at any grocery store, and is simple to use. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to 4 ounces of warm water. Stir the water until the baking soda dissolves, then drink it. If you like, you can increase the baking soda up to a couple of teaspoons if that works better for you. After using baking soda, your heartburn can be relieved for several days.

But there are a few “downsides” to this treatment. First, it doesn’t take very good. (But most people say it isn’t too hard to swallow.) Also, some people find that using baking soda makes them burp, so be aware of that possibility. Finally, if you have high blood pressure, you might want to choose another remedy, as using baking soda can raise your blood pressure.



Another natural treatment that is best for heartburn is to use an over-the-counter antacid. Tums and Rolaids are two common ones. These can relieve heartburn immediately, and many people appreciate that.

But antacids should not be used on a continual basis, and relief usually only lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Check with your doctor if you find yourself taking antacids several days a week.

Other natural remedies that are around your house are pineapple juice, orange or apple, lemon juice or yogurt. And many people find having a cold bath can relieve their heartburn – so you can try that!

Prescriptions – Bringing Out The “Big Dogs”

If the home remedies don’t relieve your heartburn, or your doctor says it is time for something more heavy hitting, consider a prescription.

First, there are the class of drugs known as H2-receptor antagonists. These are often called H2 Blockers. These are a systemic drug that decreases the amount of acid that the body releases. These are usually used to prevent heartburn, though, because they can take half an hour or longer before they provide relief of symptoms.

Another type of drug for heartburn is the alginates. These form a barrier in the stomach to protect it from the acid. It is a non-systemic drug, and is often chosen for the best treatment for heartburn.

If your body doesn’t respond well to the antacids or acid blockers, proton-pump inhibitors can be taken systemically to block acid production. Check with your doctor if you are interested in trying a prescription form of treatment for heartburn – it may be best.


Read more...

A Guide To Causes Of Heartburn

A digestive disorder in which stomach’s gastric acids regurgitate in esophagus, causing burning sensation and irritation in the chest is called heartburn. When it gets worse, the pain can spread till throat, neck and jaw. It is very easy to confuse the heartburn symptoms with those of heart attack, as heartburn pain originates from the region just under the breastbone but heartburn has nothing to do with the heart.

Causes of Heartburn

Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is the protective one-way muscular valve that separates stomach from esophagus, the food pipe. When LES becomes dysfunctional or weak, the gastric acid enters esophagus, causing heartburn. The heartburn can be caused by the increased upward pressure on valve, weakening of the valve muscles, or increased production of stomach’s gastric acids.

There are many factors that slacken the valve muscles, such as smoking, chewing tobacco, certain types of foods and consumption of alcoholic beverages.



The factors that increase the upward pressure on the valve causing the heartburn are eating large portions of food, pregnancy, eating oily and gas producing foods, sleeping on full stomach, wearing very tight clothes and bending down often.

Factors that increase the production of stomach’s gastric acids are oily and fatty foods, stress, spicy food and certain medications.

There are many causes of heartburn, and some of them can be easily controlled by taking healthy food and exercising regularly, but some of them need proper medical attention. Heartburn can be extremely discomforting, no matter what the cause, and it must be taken seriously.

Peptic ulcer is a lesion or sore in the lining of the duodenum or stomach, and can also be the cause of heartburn. Ulcers in duodenum are called duodenal ulcers, and ulcers in stomach are called stomach or gastric ulcers. Both together are usually known as peptic ulcers. For some people, the hiatal hernia may also be the cause of heartburn.

Chocolate contains a compound that naturally occurs in various plants such as tea, cocoa and coffee plants, and is known as theobromine. Concentrations of theobromine relax the esophageal sphincter muscle, and become the cause of heartburn.

Pregnancy can also be the cause of severe heartburn, even for women who never had it before. More than 75% of asthma patients suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Most of the people suffer from heartburn occasionally, especially after a meal. For some people, this condition occurs more frequently and becomes chronic. Mild or moderate heartburn can be treated with the help of home treatment or over the counter medications, but if the heartburn is more frequent, it is important to see the doctor.


Read more...

Heartburn Treatment that Works

You've been there often enough to recognize the symptoms. The painful burning that gets worse when you bend over or lie down at night. The sour taste in the back of your throat that burns or the feeling of food getting stuck in the chest. Heartburn is rarely serious but it is also far from pleasant, which is why many seek heartburn treatment when those uncomfortable symptoms rear their head.

The good news is that there are plenty of effective methods for keeping those symptoms at bay or putting a stop to them once they begin. If you suffer from heartburn symptoms on a regular basis, check out these tips to find the best heartburn treatment for you.

Heartburn Prevention

Sometimes the best heartburn treatment is to stop those painful symptoms before they even begin. The most effective way to prevent heartburn is by learning what your heartburn triggers are and avoiding them as much as possible. This is by far the easiest natural heartburn treatment, although it may take some time and savvy detective work to identify the culprits of your symptoms. Common foods that cause heartburn include chocolate, alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits and tomato products. Some spicy foods can also contribute to heartburn. By avoiding those dishes, you can go along way in preventing uncomfortable symptoms before they start.



Lifestyle changes can also be a method of heartburn treatment by cutting down on the episodes of heartburn one might typically experience. This might include moving from three large meals a day to five or six smaller ones or by avoiding food too close to bed time. Kicking the nicotine habit and dropping the extra pounds can also contribute to more symptom-free days and nights. In some cases, simple prevention tactics are sufficient heartburn treatment.

Treatment Options

When painful heartburn symptoms do strike, there are also methods of heartburn treatment that can reduce or eliminate symptoms that have already begun. The quickest type of heartburn treatment is an antacid tablet, which will neutralize stomach acid and reduce painful burning. However, antacids will not be the longest lasting heartburn treatment available. Some find that combining an antacid for fast heartburn relief with another medication that will reduce acid production for longer relief is the best method of heartburn treatment. Others find that if they take one of these medications 30 minutes before a meal, they can stop heartburn before it starts, allowing them the occasional indulgence in heartburn-producing foods they love.

Heartburn is not a serious problem in most cases, but it can be uncomfortable enough to get in the way of regular activities at times. The good news is that there are plenty of effective methods of heartburn treatment that will prevent symptoms from occurring or eliminate them once they begin.


Read more...

Find Immediate Heartburn Relief with these Remedies

If you have ever experienced heartburn before, you know how uncomfortable those heartburn symptoms can be. The painful burning sensation can keep you up at night or prevent you from enjoying your daily activities. While this condition is rarely serious, the discomfort does prompt many to search for immediate heartburn relief. The good news is that there are options in heartburn remedies that can bring both immediate and long term relief from those painful symptoms.

Immediate Heartburn Relief

The fastest way to heartburn relief once the symptoms have already started is through an over the counter antacid tablet. These chewable medications will neutralize the stomach acid that is responsible for the painful burning sensation, bringing almost immediate heartburn relief. Many who suffer from regular bouts of heartburn will carry a roll of antacids with them to ensure they are prepared when the uncomfortable symptoms hit. That way, they can find immediate heartburn relief no matter where and when it strikes.

While antacids are an excellent choice for bringing immediate heartburn relief, the relief is often short lived. For some, they need long term relief along with the instant alleviation of symptoms. In these situations, there is a second option available.

Long Term Heartburn Relief

For longer relief from painful symptoms, many turn to an over the counter H-2-receptor blocker. These medications, such as Tagamet or Pepcid, will reduce the amount of acid that is produced, thereby alleviating painful symptoms. The good news about H-2-receptor blockers is that their effects last for a much longer period of time. The bad news is that they cannot bring immediate heartburn relief; it usually takes up to an hour for these medications to take effect. An hour can feel like an eternity when you are dealing with painful burning, pressure and a sour taste in the back of your throat. However, there is a solution.

The Best of Both Worlds

In some cases, a combination of medications is the most effective heartburn remedy. The antacid can be taken right away for immediate heartburn relief, while the H-2-receptor blocker can be taken at the same time to provide relief that is long term. Before combining medications, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to ensure this method is safe for you. Once you get the green light, give the combination approach a try to see if it doesn't offer you the best of both worlds in heartburn natural relief.

Heartburn is a painful proposition, but there are effective methods of treating this condition. By combining antacids for immediate heartburn relief with H-2-receptor blockers that will provide relief over the long term, you can enjoy many more days and nights without painful heartburn symptoms.

Read more...

Heartburn Relief During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings a whole host of symptoms along with it, and some are less pleasant than others. Heartburn is a common complaint, especially during the later months of pregnancy when an inflated tummy can put additional pressure on the base of the esophagus. Even during the early months, pregnancy hormones can send your digestive system off track and even those who have never experienced heartburn before may begin to recognize the all two familiar burning and bitter taste in the mouth.

The good news is that heartburn doesn't have to be a constant companion during those nine months. There are a number of options in heartburn relief during pregnancy that can keep those uncomfortable pregnancy heartburn symptoms at bay so you can enjoy more restful days and nights.

Lifestyle Changes

One of the easiest methods of heartburn relief during pregnancy is a few simple lifestyle changes that will make it more difficult for those symptoms to rear their heads. First, cut back on the amount of food you eat at a sitting, since fuller stomachs can mean a greater chance of heartburn. Instead of eating three big meals a day, try eating five or six smaller ones.



It is also a good idea to avoid eating too close to bedtime, since lying down with a full stomach can also increase your risk for heartburn. If you find the painful burning sensation keeping you up at night, try raising the head of your bed a few inches for overnight heartburn relief during pregnancy. If these simple lifestyle changes do not work, there are some over the counter medications you can try as well.

Antacids

Most doctors agree that antacids are safe heartburn relief during pregnancy, but it is always a good idea to check with your doctor before taking any type of medication. Antacids provide immediate heartburn relief by neutralizing the acid in the stomach so that it doesn't create the painful burning sensation. The best heartburn relief during pregnancy is an antacid made from calcium carbonate that also contains magnesium. Stay away from antacids that contain aluminum during pregnancy, since this ingredient can be constipating.

Other Options

If antacids don't seem to do the trick, there are other over the counter medications available. Some of these will block acid production to bring heartburn relief during pregnancy and prevent heartburn symptoms from coming back. However, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying any of these methods of heartburn relief during pregnancy to ensure the medication you choose will be safe for both you and your baby.

Heartburn is a typical problem during those nine months, but you don't have to suffer through. There are many options in heartburn relief during pregnancy that will keep those painful symptoms at bay so you can rest easier.


Read more...

Heartburn Medicine : Options from your Doctor

For most of us, heartburn is an occasional problem that can be easily treated with over the counter medications like antacids. For some however, heartburn becomes a recurring problem, getting in the way of daily activities and even causing damage to the lining of the esophagus if left unchecked for a period of time. Some sufferers find that a few simple lifestyle and dietary changes are sufficient for keeping heartburn symptoms in check. Others turn to heartburn medicine that is prescribed by their doctor for the most effective relief. If you are suffering from frequent bouts of heartburn and over the heartburn remedies are not controlling the problem, check out the options in prescription heartburn medicine.

Histamine-2 Blockers

One of the first lines of defense in prescription heartburn medicine is a histamine-2 blocker, also known as an H-2 blocker. Commercial names for this type of heartburn medicine include Tagamet, Pepcid and Zantac. These medications work by reducing the amount of acid that is produced by the body. It is best to take this heartburn medicine about 30 minutes prior to a meal or before bed if heartburn keeps you up at night. While this type of heartburn medicine won't provide immediate heartburn relief, the effects will be long lasting. It is best in keeping painful symptoms away and will not work particularly well on healing esophageal lining that has already been damaged through exposure to harmful stomach acids.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

This type of heartburn medicine is usually the prescription of choice when damage to the esophageal lining has been diagnosed due to frequent bouts of heartburn. Proton pump inhibitors block the production of acid by the stomach, allowing the esophagus time to heal from damage. These medications, known by commercial names like Prevacid and Prilosec, can be found in over the counter dosing amounts as well, but doctors generally recommend that patients come in for an evaluation before taking any proton pump inhibitor. This type of medicine is generally taken one hour before a meal and can provide relief for many hours.

Promotility Agents

This type of heartburn medicine is usually the last one prescribed for those who cannot find relief with any other type of heartburn treatments. Reglan is one such medicine that is frequently used to treat heartburn or acid reflux disease. These medications work in a very different way from other types of heartburn medicine; by stimulating the muscles of the digestive tract and strengthening the muscle at the base of the esophagus. These medications usually include more severe side effects, which is why they are often prescribed as a last resort.

If home and over the counter remedies are not sufficiently keeping your heartburn symptoms under control, there are other options available. Talk to your doctor about the best heartburn medicine for you and say goodbye to the painful burning for good.

Read more...

Heartburn Relief from the Pharmacy

Heartburn is a common condition that plagues just about everyone on occasion. However, for people who find they are suffering from the painful burning more often, heartburn relief becomes an important quest.

The good news is that there are many effective options in heartburn relief today, and some are as close as your local pharmacy. If heartburn is getting you down more often than you'd like, check out these options in relieving those all too familiar heartburn symptoms.

Antacids

This is usually the first line of defense in heartburn relief, because this medication works fast and effectively for most heartburn sufferers. Antacids work by neutralizing the stomach acid that is responsible for the painful burning sensation typical of heartburn episodes. The most common types of antacids include Rolaids, Maalox and Mylanta. These medications are even safe for heartburn relief during pregnancy in most cases. While using an antacid for the occasional bout of heartburn is a good choice, too much of a good thing can result in diarrhea or constipation. To prevent this problem, look for a medication that contains both magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide for your heartburn relief.

H-2-Receptor Blockers

Another effective over the counter method of heartburn relief is an H-2-receptor blocker like Tagamet or Pepcid. These medications work differently than an antacid by reducing the acid production instead of neutralizing acid that is already present. The good news about H-2-receptor blockers is that they tend to work for a longer period of time than antacids do. The bad news is that they take longer to take effect, so heartburn relief is not as instantaneous as it is when you swallow down a Rolaids or two. In some cases, heartburn sufferers will take both so they can enjoy instant relief and long term alleviation of symptoms at the same time.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Medications like Prilosec used to be available by prescription only but now there are over the counter versions of this medication. Proton pump inhibitors actually block acid production, allowing the body to enjoy a long, uninterrupted bout of heartburn relief. This is particularly helpful to those who have suffered frequent bouts of heartburn that have caused damage to the esophageal lining. Blocking acid production with these medications actually gives the esophagus time to heal.

If heartburn if putting a glitch in your life, you don't have to take it lying down. With many good options in over the counter heartburn relief, you can enjoy more symptom free days and nights.

Read more...

What's the Best Heartburn Remedy?

There are plenty of over the counter medicines for heartburn relief, all claiming to be the best heartburn remedy. This article will look at three of the most popular.

Prilosec OTC

Prilosec OTC is the brand name for the Omeprazole Magnesium tablets made by Astra Zeneca. It was the first over the counter proton pump inhibitor available on the market. It works by shutting down the triggers that tell the stomach to produce acid, whilst leaving enough for digestion. Prilosec makes its claim to be the best heartburn remedy based on the fact that one pill lasts for 24 hours, unlike most other heartburn remedies on the market.

Prilosec OTC is not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart disease or liver disease.

Zantac

Zantac is an over the counter acid reducer manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim. Its active ingredient is a histamine blocker known as ranitidine. It comes in two strengths, 75mg and 150mg. The 150mg variety also comes in a mint flavor that creates a cooling sensation to fight heartburn.



Zantac works best as a remedy for occasional heartburn. Taken an hour before a meal, it can help prevent the production of excess stomach acid.

You should not take Zantac if you have liver or kidney disease. If you have trouble or pain swallowing food, consult your doctor.

Pepcid Complete

Pepcid Complete was the first over the counter medicine to combine an acid reducer with an antacid. It claims to be the best heartburn remedy due to the fact that the antacid starts working almost immediately while the histamine blocker provides long lasting relief.

The chewable tablets come in two flavors, cool mint and berry. Each tablet contains 10 mg of the acid reducer famotidine, 800 mg of calcium carbonate (as found in antacids such as Tums) and 165 mg of magnesium hydroxide (the active ingredient in milk of magnesia).

As with other heartburn remedies, you should not take Pepcid Complete if you have trouble swallowing or if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. Pepcid Complete may interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin and certain antibiotics. Consult your doctor if you are on any of these medications.

So, which is the best heartburn remedy for you? There's no single answer to this question. Heartburn has a variety of causes, and different medication may work better for different people. At the end of the day, it is a process of trial and error, to find the heartburn remedy that works best for your individual symptoms.


Read more...

Common Household Remedies for Heartburn

Your granny always told you that household remedies made the best heartburn remedies. This article will look at some common household remedies for heartburn. These remedies will fall into three categories, dietary, herbal and lifestyle as self heartburn tretaments.

Dietary Household Remedies for Heartburn

You've probably heard that milk helps line the stomach. It's true and that's why cold milk and yogurt are often recommended as household remedies for heartburn. Milk is a natural antacid, neutralizing the stomach acids that cause heartburn. Meanwhile, yogurt contains both milk and beneficial bacteria that can aid in digestion. The coldness of frozen yogurt also helps soothe irritated stomach linings.

Other foods that can help fight heartburn include bananas, cooked rice and raw almonds. All these foods help fight acidity in the stomach. Bananas and almond oil are naturally alkaline, while rice helps to absorb stomach acid.



Apple cider vinegar is another popular old timey cure for heartburn. Whilst this may seem counter intuitive due to the acidic nature of vinegar, it can actually help balance the pH of the digestive system. Try adding 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water with some honey to take away the sour taste.

Herbal Household Remedies for Heartburn

Many common herbs and plants can be used in treating heartburn. Crystallized or powdered ginger helps relax the muscles in the esophagus, which can prevent the release of stomach acid into it – the root cause of heartburn.

Goldenseal contains berberine, an antibiotic that is known to kill the Helicobacter Pylori bacteria that can inflame the lining of the stomach and duodenum. It grows naturally in the United States and can be identified by a daisy like flower combined with a red fruit resembling a raspberry. The root is used to make a bitter tincture by combining it with ethanol in a jar and leaving for 2 to 3 weeks. Some commercially prepared tinctures also add distilled water to dilute the alcohol.

Marshmallow root boiled in water to make an herb tea is another common household remedy for heartburn. If you drink it three times a day, it can help to coat the esophagus.

Other Household Remedies for Heartburn

Not every household remedy for heartburn revolves around what you put in your mouth. There are simple lifestyle changes that are just as useful. Alcohol, tobacco, coffee and chocolate can all exacerbate heartburn symptoms, so avoiding them is a simple way to prevent heartburn from occurring in the first place. Ditto spicy or rich foods. It is best not to eat in the 2 or 3 hours before bedtime, as heartburn often occurs after you lie down. Raising the head of your bed a few inches can also help for the same reason. Following these tips should help you enjoy a good night's sleep free of heartburn.


Read more...

Homeopathic Remedies for Heartburn

Homeopathic remedies for heartburn are, like all homeopathic remedies, based on the same principle as "hair of the dog" for curing hangovers. That is to say, just as a small quantity of alcohol can help undo the effects of too much drinking the night before, the homeopathic principle states that substances that might actually produce heartburn in larger quantities are beneficial when taken in very small, very dilute doses. Let us look at some of these homeopathic remedies for heartburn.

Household Homeopathic Remedies for Heartburn

There are also a couple of common household supplements that are used by homeopaths to treat heartburn. Zinc is best known as a cold remedy, but taken after a rich meal, it can also provide heartburn natural relief. Zinc helps to heal the gastric tissues that are damaged by heartburn. As with the other remedies mentioned above, it is important not to overdose, as too much zinc can be toxic.

Vegetable charcoal is made from the ashes of certain trees or vegetables such as oak or bayberry tree barks. A teaspoon of these ashes can be stirred into a glass of water, and this helps absorb certain toxins that can cause heartburn and other digestive disorders. Take a glass every hour until the heartburn symptoms subside. Charcoal can also help absorb gases, so this remedy is useful for gas as well as heartburn treatment.

Arsenic as a Homeopathic Remedy for Heartburn

Arsenic is commonly known as a poison: who could forget the two dear little old ladies sweetly murdering their guests in the classic black comedy Arsenic and Old Lace? But ten drops of arsenic in a wine glass of warm water taken after meals is a common homeopathic remedy for heartburn.

However, caution is recommended when dealing with such a toxic substance. A dose of more than 70 micrograms could be fatal. It is also worth bearing in mind that the average American consumes 12 to 60 micrograms of arsenic daily as part of his or her diet anyway, with fish, grains and cereals being the most common source. This needs to be taken into account when calculating the dosage.

Nux Vomica Seeds as a Homeopathic Remedy for Heartburn

Another poison used as a homeopathic remedy for heartburn is nux vomica, better known as strychnine. The seeds of the strychnine tree are rich in copper, which can cause stomach cramps when ingested in large quantities. Based on the homeopathic principle that "like cures like", this makes it an ideal candidate as a homeopathic remedy for heartburn.

Read more...

Heartburn Herbal Remedy Are A Great Alternative

Heartburn is very uncomfortable pain that can be very misleading. Many people often think they are experiencing a heart attack because some of the symptoms of are very similar. There are many different types of heartburn remedies or heartburn treatments available. Many people choose many of the over the counter medications that are available.

There are heartburn herbal remedy alternatives that are available for those who do not want to use the various drugs available. Many of the heartburn herbal remedies have been available for many years now and there are common favorites among those that use them. Many of the heartburn herbal remedies are available at local nutrition centers or drug stores that makes it very easy for people to be able to get.

What Can You Get

There are three more commonly used heartburn herbal remedies available. Chamomile is a common favorite heartburn herbal remedy. It is typically known for its calming effect and many people like to drink chamomile tea as a soothing drink. The reason chamomile is heartburn herbal remedy is because it is high in calcium that helps to decrease the stomach acids that are typically very high during a heartburn attack. Ginger is also a common heartburn herbal remedy.



It has been typically used for many different types of stomach problems. Ginger helps as an anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea that are symptoms of heartburn. Peppermint is also used has a heartburn herbal remedy because it can help to calm the stomach and reduce the acid production of the stomach.

Why Choose Them

Many people chose heartburn herbal remedies over pharmaceutical drugs because of the side affects that can occur with taking drugs especially over a long period of time. There are many new studies out that are showing the side effects of taking drugs to treat heartburn can cause damage when taken over a long period of time. Many of the pharmaceutical drugs used to treat heartburn are meant to treat the symptoms and not the cause of heartburn itself, which is why many people turn to homeopathic remedies for heartburn.

Many of the heartburn herbal remedies are gentler on the body and do not cause as many side effects. Some of the heartburn herbal remedies are helpful in treating other aliments as well which helps in reducing the amount of chemicals you would be putting into your body also. Many people choose a heartburn herbal remedy when they have chronic heartburn or feel that the pharmaceutical drugs are not worth the side effects especially when they only treat the heartburn symptoms and not the cause.


Read more...

Natural Remedies For Heartburn In Your Home

Many people suffer from heartburn. For some it is an every day occurrence. Heartburn is caused by many different factors and it can be very hard to distinguish the difference heartburn from other heart aliments when you experience it for the first time. The symptoms of heartburn can vary from each person and from each episode depending on what triggered the heartburn attack. Understanding what causes your heartburn is the best way to prevent it from happening. Fortunately there are many natural remedies for heartburn or other heartburn treatments that can be found in your own home if and when you do suffer from a heartburn attack.

In Your Kitchen

There are many natural remedies heartburn that you can find in your kitchen cupboards. Some natural remedies for heartburn that can be found in your cupboards are soda crackers and brown rice. The crackers help to absorb the stomach acid that is probably causing your heartburn. They are very easy to digest and they are available everywhere. Brown rice is a bland food that will help in reducing your stomach acid as well. It can help relieve your discomfort and also absorb some of the stomach acid.

There are many natural remedies for heartburn in your refrigerator as well. Apples, buttermilk, papaya and fruit juices all help to reduce acid and relive some of the discomfort you may be feeling from heartburn. There are also many spices that are natural remedies for heartburn that can be used as heartburn herbal remedies. Cinnamon, ginger and sage are all natural remedies for heartburn because they can provide acid relief and can relieve the burning sensation often felt when heartburn occurs.

What To Do To Prevent Heartburn

There are many things you can do to prevent heartburn. Eating smaller meals will prevent your stomach from producing too much acid. Not eating before going to bed and lying down in an upright position are all natural remedies for heartburn that can prevent or relieve some of the heartburn symptoms.

Tight clothing and excess weight can aggravate heartburn symptoms. One of the best natural remedies for heartburn is to drink a lot of water. Drinking a lot of water between meals will help clean your stomach and it will not add to your stomach contents if you drink a lot of water during a meal. You are more likely to experience heartburn if you eat too much or have too much in your stomach. The best natural remedy for heartburn is recognizing what causes your heartburn attacks and taking steps to prevent it from happening.


Read more...

What Home Remedies For Heartburn Are Available?

Many people need to turn to some form of heartburn remedy to help them when they experience heartburn. There are many different remedies or heartburn treatments available today depending on the severity of the heartburn. There are also many home remedies for heartburn available today for those who do not want to use prescription medications and over the counter medications.

While there are many home remedies for heartburn available many people will say the best remedy is prevention. Recognizing that you are prone to heartburn and what causes your heartburn can be some of the best home remedies for heartburn. Also understanding what home remedies for heartburn are available will help you understand how to change your lifestyle so you can be heartburn free.


Heartburn is caused when the acid in your stomach goes back up your throat. This typically can happen after you have eaten a large meal. One home remedy for heartburn you can do is to prevent your stomach from producing a lot of acid by eating smaller more frequent meals instead of larger meals.

A few other home remedies for heartburn are associated with how you sleep at night. It is best to raise your upper half of your body if you suffer from heartburn while you are sleeping. Sleeping in a very soft bed or a waterbed can also aggravate your heartburn symptoms. Many home remedies for heartburn focus on preventing heartburn by understanding what causes it to happen. Understanding the triggers can help in treating the heartburn and preventing it from happening.

What Are The Triggers For Heartburn?

There are many things that can cause heartburn. Many home remedies for heartburn try to help you understand the triggers that cause the heartburn. Everyone will have different triggers that cause their heartburn and they will find they will find relief from different types of home remedies for heartburn. Spicy food can cause heartburn therefore the natural remedies for heartburn that is caused by spicy food would be to avoid the spicy food to begin with.

Caffeine can cause heartburn as well therefore coffee and soda can increase your chances of having heartburn. Stress can cause heartburn because it can increase your stomach acid production. The best home remedies for heartburn cause by stress are to find a way to remove the stress from your life. There many different things in our lives that can cause stress and many different outlets that will help us relieve that stress.

Read more...

Simple Heartburn Remedies You Can Do

There are many heartburn remedies available for those who suffer heartburn. They can range from home remedies for heartburn to medical prescriptions for severe heartburn. It is difficult for some people to believe they have heartburn because they do not experience the typical heartburn symptoms associated with it.

Many of the heartburn remedies available can be purchased at your local drug store and do not need a doctor’s prescription. These heartburn remedies are to be taken after you feel a heartburn attack happening and need immediate relief. There are also many home remedies that meant to prevent heartburn from happening to begin with so that you do not have to experience it at all.

Prevention Of Heartburn

One of the best heartburn remedies available is prevention. Understanding what causes your heartburn is the best heartburn remedy if you know you suffer from heartburn. One way to understand what causes your heartburn will be to find out what triggers the heartburn. Spicy food can cause heartburn and the best heartburn remedy is to avoid it if you can. Some other heartburn remedies are to eat smaller meals instead of eating one or two larger meals.



This will prevent your stomach from producing a lot of acid to when trying to digest your large meals. Doctors will also tell you one of the best home remedies is to not lie down after you have eaten. This will allow you time to digest your meal properly. It is also suggested to lie down with your upper body raised if you still experience heartburn when you go to sleep at night. It has also been found that loosing weight and not wearing tight clothing are great home remedies.

What Is Available?

There are many heartburn remedies available as over the counter medications and prescription drugs for those in need of immediate relief or who have persistent, chronic heartburn. There are home remedies for heartburn as well for those who do not want to use a drug to alleviate their symptoms. You need to understand what you need before taking a lot of medication that might not help you or make your symptoms worse. If you are experiencing heartburn pain and need immediate relief then some of the heartburn remedies to turn are the over the counter medications available at your local drug store.

You should consult a professional immediately if you have persistent heartburn or severe pain associated with your heartburn that does not seem to lessen. They can prescribe some heartburn remedies that are stronger in strength then those found at your local drug store and they can help you determine if you are experiencing chronic heartburn or something more severe.


Read more...

Dealing With Pregnancy Heartburn Symptoms

Heartburn, also known as pyrosis or acid indigestion, is a burning sensation in the center of the chest that as much as half of the world’s population suffers at some point in their lives. Many women suffer pregnancy heartburn symptoms, which can make getting rest a nightmare, as heartburn attacks usually occur when the body is in a horizontal position. At least 25% of pregnant women experience heartburn on a daily basis.

What Causes Pregnancy Heartburn Symptoms?

Pregnancy heartburn symptoms can occur for two reasons. First, the increase in estrogen and other hormones increases the production of stomach acids, which then leak into the esophagus, producing heartburn. Second, as the pregnancy advances, heartburn symptoms may be caused or exacerbated by the fetus growing and pressing against the stomach, which can cause the stomach to churn out excess acid.

Heartburn Remedies For Pregnant Women

Pregnant sufferers of heartburn symptoms often treat their heartburn the same way as chronic sufferers. An important first step is to reduce intake of certain foods that cause and exacerbate heartburn.

These foods cause the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach to relax, which results in gastric acid leaking into the esophageal tube. These foods include coffee, soft drinks, acidic fruit juices, sweets, chocolate, alcohol, and spicy foods. Reducing intake of these foods, or avoiding them altogether, dramatically reduces the incidence of heartburn symptoms during pregnancy.



Another way pregnant women can prevent the onset of heartburn is to not eat within an hour of bedtime. Gastric juices are most active during and immediately after a meal, so waiting for the stomach to settle down reduces in less acid leaking into the esophagus while lying down.

Drinking plenty of water between, but not during, meals can also help alleviate the suffering of pregnancy heartburn symptoms. Sufferers should avoid drinking more than a glass of fluids with meals. Drinking too much with food can overfill the stomach, causing a gastric eruption into the esophagus.

Eating smaller meals more frequently can also help ease the pain of pregnancy heartburn symptoms. Again, this has to do with not overfilling the stomach. In addition, the stomach tends to over-produce acid when it is hungry, so keeping the stomach fuller more times of the day will decrease the built-up acid.

Anyone suffering heartburn symptoms during pregnancy should make sure they keep their physician informed about this. While it is a common occurrence, doctors may be able to prescribe treatments for more serious cases. Under no circumstances should heartburn be left untreated, as this can lead to more serious health issues.

Read more...