Finding the Best Heartburn Remedy for You

Most of us get heartburn from time to time and can relate to the discomfort that results. When you begin to experience the painful burning sensation in your chest, you want a heartburn remedy that will work - the faster, the better. There are many types of heartburn remedies available today; some you can find over the counter and others you might have on hand at home. When it comes to treating the occasional heartburn flare up, you have choice in relief that include lifestyle and dietary changes, herbal treatments and over the counter medications. Read on to find the best heartburn remedy for you.

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
For some folks, the best heartburn remedy is to prevent it before it begins through diet and lifestyle changes. If you can pinpoint the food that triggers your heartburn, you can either avoid the food completely or take a medication prior to eating that will help to reduce the possibility of a heartburn episode. Common culprits of heartburn include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and citrus fruits and juices. It can also help to eat smaller meals and eat them more frequently, since a full stomach can also contribute to heartburn. Sometimes the easiest heartburn remedy is to simply avoid eating too close to bedtime, since lying down with a full stomach can contribute to this condition.

Herbal Treatments
Herbal heartburn remedies are another popular choice, and there are many different types of that you can choose from. Ginger is a common herb that is used to relieve gas and create a healthier digestive system overall. Cinnamon, lavender and peppermint also work to this end. Soothing herbs like licorice and slippery elm can also be effective heartburn remedies. While herbal remedies can be less costly than many medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any kind of herbal supplementation. This will help to ensure that the herbs you choose will not interact negatively with any of your current medications or medical conditions.

Over the Counter Medications

If these heartburn remedies are not effective for you, there are also over the counter medications that you can try. Antacids like Rolaids and Maalox can bring quick and effective relief for the occasional flare up. H-2-receptor blockers like Tagamet and Pepcid take longer to work but they also bring longer lasting relief. For those who suffer from frequent bouts, proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec block acid production to reduce heartburn and allow your body to heal from any possible damage.

Heartburn is a painful condition, but the good news is that there are plenty of good heartburn remedies to bring relief from the symptoms.