Heartburn

Heartburn is caused by excess stomach acid escaping up the gullet and causing a burning sensation in the oesophagus (food pipe). It can be relieved quickly with over the counter medicines.

• Avoid large meals: it is better to eat little and often.
• Avoid lying down immediately after you have eaten.
• Chew your food properly and do not rush your meal.
• Avoid spicy and greasy foods as they can worsen heartburn.
• Some heartburn remedies can stop other medicines from working. Ask in the pharmacy if your tablets are safe with a heartburn remedy
• Anyone whose heartburn passes into their shoulder and down the arm should see their doctor as soon as possible.
• Smoking and being overweight can worsen heartburn.