Heartburn

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Burning pain or discomfort in the upper chest and midchest, possibly involving the neck and throat, that may get worse when lying down.

Description

Don’t eat two hours before lying down, and try not to eat fats, chocolate and citrus. Some nonprescription antacid medicines help right away; others work long term.

Self-care

See a healthcare professional right away if:

• Pain in chest happens along with other symptoms, such as sweating, shortness of breath, or pain in the arm or jaw.
• Heartburn symptoms don’t respond to nonprescription antacids.

When to seek immediate medical care

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if:

• Heartburn happens two or more times a week.
• Symptoms affect sleep.
• New cough develops.
• Difficulty swallowing, nausea or vomiting.
• Self-treatment doesn’t help.
• Losing weight without trying.

, When to make a doctor’s appointment