Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone, caused by stomach acid rising into the esophagus. It is a symptom of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Is there a difference between acid reflux, heart burn and gastritis? The answer is yes. Heartburn, acid reflux, and gastritis are related but distinct digestive issues Acid reflux leads to heartburn. Gastritis is different from acid reflux and heartburn.

Acid reflux: Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.

Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest -behind chest bone caused by acid reflux in esophagus

Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining. Pain in the upper abdomen and irritation in stomach.

What are symptoms of Heartburn:

• Burning sensation in the chest (often after eating or at night)
• Pain worsens when lying down or bending over.
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• The feeling of food stuck in the throat.

Causes of heartburn:

• Eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
• Overeating
• Lying down after eating
• Caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks
• Smoking
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Certain medications (e.g., aspirin)

Cures and remedies for heartburn:

Immediate relief:

• Antacids like Tums neutralize stomach acid.
• H2 Blockers like ranitidine or famotidine reduce acid production.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole- block acid production for longer relief.

Lifestyle changes for prevention of heartburn

• Eat smaller meals and avoid overeating.
• Avoid trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine).
• Do not lie down right after eating, wait at least 2-3 hours.
• Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the stomach.
• Avoid tight clothing around the stomach.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol.

Natural remedies to help relieve and prevent heartburn:

1. Aloe vera juice: Soothes the esophagus and reduces inflammation. Drink a small amount (about ½ cup) before meals.

2. Ginger: Helps with digestion and reduces stomach acid production. Drink ginger tea or chew a small piece of fresh ginger.

3. Apple cider vinegar: Helps balance stomach acid levels. Mix one teaspoon of ACV in a glass of warm water and drink before meals. (Start with lesser amounts to see if it helps.)

4. Baking soda: Neutralizes stomach acid. Mix ½ teaspoon in a glass of water and drink occasionally. (Not for long-term use.)

5. Bananas with oatmeal: Bananas function as a natural antacid and coat the stomach lining. Oatmeal helps absorb excess stomach acid.

6. Slippery elm: Forms a protective coating in the stomach and esophagus. Take as a tea or in supplement form.

7. Chamomile tea: Reduces stomach acidity and relaxes the digestive tract. Drink chamomile tea before bedtime to prevent nighttime heartburn.

8. Fennel seeds: Aid digestion and reduce bloating. Chew on a few seeds after meals or drink fennel tea.

9. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice: Licorice root – Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of licorice root extract that has had the compound glycyrrhizin removed. It increases mucus production to protect the stomach lining. Available as chewable tablets or tea.

10. Avoid late night eating: Stop eating at least 2-3 hours before bed. Sleep with your head elevated to prevent acid reflux. Maintain good posture after meals to aid digestion.