- Heartburn usually starts as a feeling of unpleasant warmth in the center or upper part of the chest. A more painful burning sensation, caused by acid in the esophagus, usually follows.
- Heartburn is caused by excess stomach acid pushing up into the esophagus. This can be caused by overproduction of stomach acid, a weak esophageal sphincter or a combination of both.
- Antacids treat heartburn temporarily by neutralizing stomach acid. For long-term relief of frequent heartburn, medications, such as ranitidine (Zantac) or famotidine (Pepcid AC), that limit stomach acid production are more suitable. Antacids and these medications are available without a prescription. For more severe cases, you may get prescription strength medicines from your physician.
- If heartburn symptoms do not subside with treatment, or you experience fatigue, dizziness, nausea or other symptoms, seek help.
- If you have frequent episodes of heartburn, you may have acid reflux disease or another underlying problem.