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What’s the Best Way to Treat Heartburn?
The New York Times • • health
Key Points:
- Heartburn, affecting about 20% of Americans, is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus due to a weakened valve between the stomach and esophagus.
- Common triggers include certain foods and drinks like red wine, tomato sauce, chocolate, mint, large meals, pregnancy, overweight, and GLP-1 medications.
- Over-the-counter treatments include antacids (Tums, Rolaids), H2 blockers (Pepcid, Zantac 360), proton pump inhibitors (Nexium, Prilosec), and alginate medications (Gaviscon), each working differently to relieve symptoms.
- Antacids provide immediate relief by neutralizing stomach acid, helping to quickly mask the burning and pain associated with heartburn.
