Heartburn:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, January 15 and May 7
Show 302

Many patients come into the pharmacy when they have a burning sensation that begins in their chest and moves up into the neck and throat. In most cases, they have heartburn and so do millions of other Americans. Heartburn is caused by stomach acid flowing up into your esophagus. There are many over-the-counter products available that help combat heartburn. They fall into three categories. Antacids neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief but don't heal. Receptor blockers reduce the production of acid. They don't act as quickly as antacids, but do provide longer relief. And proton pump inhibitors block acid production and allow time for your damaged esophagus to heal. If you experience persistent heartburn more than two times a week, you should talk to your doctor because you may need additional treatment.