Instant treatment for gi burning
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gastroesophageal reflux AND antacids
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NHS heartburn and acid reflux self help antacids emergency symptoms
For sudden upper-stomach or chest burning that feels like acidity/heartburn:
- Take a fast-acting OTC antacid or alginate-antacid as directed on the pack. Liquid forms tend to work faster. Examples include calcium carbonate or alginate-containing products.
- Sip water, stay upright, and avoid lying down for at least 2-3 hours.
- Avoid more food for now, plus alcohol, coffee, spicy/fatty foods, citrus, and smoking.
- Do not take ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin for this, as they can worsen stomach irritation.
For frequent reflux, an OTC acid reducer such as famotidine may give longer relief but is not as immediate. Antacids can relieve heartburn, but frequent symptoms need assessment. MedlinePlus guidance
Get emergency care now if the burning is with chest pressure/tightness, shortness of breath, sweating, pain spreading to arm/jaw/back, faintness, vomiting blood, or black stools. Heart attack symptoms can resemble heartburn. MedlinePlus emergency advice
See a clinician promptly if it happens most days, wakes you at night, does not improve within a few weeks, or you have trouble swallowing, vomiting, unintentional weight loss, or bleeding.
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