Definitions

Heartburn

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Heartburn occurs two or more times a week
• Reflux symptoms interfere with sleep
• New cough develops
• Difficulty swallowing, nausea, or vomiting
• Self-treatment doesn't help
• Unintentional weight loss

Self-care

Don't eat two hours before lying down, and avoid fats, chocolate, and citrus. Some over-the-counter antacid medications help immediately; others work long term.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• Pain in chest occurs with other symptoms, such as sweating, shortness of breath, or pain in the arm or jaw
• Heartburn symptoms don't respond to over-the-counter antacids

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Heartburn occurs two or more times a week
• Reflux symptoms interfere with sleep
• New cough develops
• Difficulty swallowing, nausea, or vomiting
• Self-treatment doesn't help
• Unintentional weight loss