Today's Health Topic

The best ways to manage heartburn

Q. I have about three episodes of heartburn per month and it often lasts all day. What do you suggest?

A. Heartburn is caused by stomach acid moving up and out of the stomach and into the lower part of the esophagus. Reducing the overall acidity in the stomach protects the esophagus from irritation when the stomach contents back up (reflux). The fastest treatment is to neutralize the acid already in the stomach and lower esophagus by taking an over-the-counter antacid. While antacids work within minutes, they often don't last, so you may have to take repeated doses until symptoms subside. For longer-lasting relief ...