Reflux how long

For example, things like maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, and steering clear of spicy and acidic foods can potentially reduce the frequency and intensity of your heartburn. You might also try out the following methods to minimize heartburn symptoms:.

While mild heartburn on occasion is perfectly normal, it can be problematic if it begins to occur on a regular basis or if symptoms become more severe. Additionally, if your heartburn symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter OTC medication for two weeks or longer, then it may be a good idea to seek out other forms of medical treatment.

A doctor will be able to conduct a physical exam and run tests to see if you have any underlying conditions that are causing chronic heartburn. So schedule an appointment with your doctor to get checked out and discuss potential treatment options going forward.

Keep in mind, too, that the symptoms of severe heartburn include intense pain and discomfort, and can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack. Heartburn is a very common condition that almost everyone deals with from time to time. Some groups, such as smokers, pregnant women, and those who are overweight, have a higher risk of experiencing it on a regular basis.

However, anyone can be affected by it. The good news is that, most of the time, mild heartburn is nothing to worry about and symptoms generally pass after a few hours, or once the food that triggered the heartburn episode has been digested. While it may start out as just an inconvenience, it can start to interfere with your day-to-day life and prevent you from doing the activities you want to do.

Take action today, so you can start living your life without being irritated by chronic heartburn. November 01, 6 min read. June 10, 5 min read.

May 10, 5 min read. MedCline was founded in by Carl Melcher, M. D, who was a life-long sufferer of GERD. Lifestyle habits often play an integral role in the development as well as the severity of heartburn. Factors that can contribute to conditions known to be linked with heartburn such as hiatal hernia or GERD include:.

Heartburn can happen to anyone and is generally not cause for concern. If you find yourself experiencing prolonged heartburn, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause so you can work toward getting some relief. Get nutrition tips and advice to make healthy eating easier. Cleveland Clinic. Updated January 22, Harvard Health. What does heartburn feel like? Updated May Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center. Taking antacids. April 2, The safety of long-term daily usage of a proton pump inhibitor: a literature review.

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These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Symptoms of Heartburn. Antacid Warning Avoid taking antacids if you have any symptoms of appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease IBD. Side Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors. A GP may prescribe a medicine called a proton pump inhibitor PPI that reduces how much acid your stomach makes.

PPIs include:. You'll usually need to take this type of medicine for 4 or 8 weeks, depending on how serious your acid reflux is. Go back to the GP if your symptoms return after stopping your medicine. You may need a long-term prescription. If medicines do not help or your symptoms are severe, a GP may refer you to a specialist for:. Page last reviewed: 09 September Next review due: 09 September Heartburn and acid reflux.