Heartburn is one of the most common digestive issues experienced by people. It is characterised by a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest that is sometimes accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the throat. These symptoms are commonly associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus.
While heartburn can be alleviated with lifestyle and dietary changes, Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications can also help with faster recovery. But a few things should be kept in mind before resorting to such medications. Dr Ganapathi S Kini, Consultant-Gastroenterology, SRV Hospitals, Dombivli, shed light on the same.
Also Read: GERD: Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux and Heartburn
When Should You Take Heartburn Medications?
Dr Kini said, “People should take heartburn medications when they experience symptoms of acid reflux, including a burning sensation in the chest, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, and a persistent cough.”
He explained, “Antacids work quickly to neutralise stomach acid and can offer immediate relief. H2 blockers reduce the production of stomach acid, offering longer-lasting relief than antacids. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are even more potent, as they block acid production at the source.”
In several studies, PPI has been found to be more effective in treating GERD symptoms than H2 blockers. A study published in the Journal Cureus found that PPI was 84% effective in treating gastric and 87% effective in duodenal ulcers, whereas H2RA blockers were 78% effective in gastric and 76% in duodenal ulcers.
However, the effectiveness can vary among individuals, and the choice of medication depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms, said Dr Kini, adding, “While these medications can manage symptoms effectively for many people, it's crucial to use them judiciously and not as a long-term solution without medical advice.”
What Does It Mean When They Do Not Work?
According to Dr Kini, if heartburn medications do not seem to work, it could be due to various reasons, including:
Incorrect diagnosis, meaning when symptoms could be unrelated to acid reflux or heartburn. In such cases, other conditions, such as gallstones, gastritis, or even cardiac issues, can mimic heartburn, the doctor said.
Some individuals may have a more severe form of GERD that doesn't respond effectively to standard treatments.
In some cases, the body might not respond to certain medications due to individual differences or other underlying health conditions.
Chronic symptoms could be intensified by dietary choices, obesity, tobacco use, or other lifestyle elements that require attention.
Also Read: Winter Indigestion: How To Manage Acid Reflux That Worsens In Cold Weather
When Should You Worry?
While acidity and heartburn are mostly harmless, they can be worrying if they’re persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Swallowing difficulties
- Unintended weight loss
- Continuous vomiting
“Such symptoms might signify complications arising from GERD or another hidden ailment that demands further investigations and management,” said Dr Kini.
Home Remedies That May Provide Relief
Here are some natural ways to relieve heartburn:
- Eat smaller and frequent meals
- Avoid trigger foods, like acidic, spicy, and fatty foods
- Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
- Stay upright for at least two hours after meals
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
Conclusion
Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest can be discomforting. While making necessary adjustments in your diet and lifestyle can help alleviate the symptoms, consulting with your doctor may help provide a faster approach to recovery. OTC medications help provide short-term instant relief in certain cases; however, if you do not see any changes, it is important to address them with your doctor.