Symptoms and triggers of heartburn

One minute you’re enjoying good food and good times with family and friends, and the next you’re feeling that familiar, burning sensation rising in your chest.

Heartburn, and its related conditions acid indigestion, acid reflux and GERD* (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), occur when stomach acid enters the esophagus.

It’s worthwhile to know the difference between heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD. More importantly, knowing the triggers and symptoms of heartburn — and how to avoid them. And, of course, how Rolaids® helps provides powerful, rapid relief of heartburn.

Heartburn is perfectly named, because it’s a burning sensation that you feel right in the chest. Normally, you swallow food, it travels down the esophagus to the stomach, and acid breaks it down. But when stomach acid travels back up into the esophagus, you can get that terrible burning feeling.

Typical symptoms and characteristics of heartburn

More than half of all pregnant women experience heartburn, often due to changing hormone levels and/or pressure on the stomach from the growing uterus. Symptoms usually disappear after the baby is born.

If you experience heartburn symptoms while pregnant, consult with your healthcare professional first and ask if Rolaids® can help.

People sometimes confuse occasional heartburn with acid reflux and GERD because some symptoms may be similar.

Heartburn is a common symptom that typically isn’t serious. Acid reflux and GERD may be more severe and frequent—occurring at least twice a week.

If you have heartburn symptoms that persist more than two weeks, make an appointment to see your healthcare professional.

Be sure to consult your physician if you experience the following:

Heartburn is usually an unforced error. When you eat lots of spicy, hard-to-digest foods and beverages, or a lot of food all at once, your stomach produces more acid to digest them. When that acid backs up into the esophagus, you get heartburn.

When what you eat triggers heartburn, remember Rolaids® provides relief.

Food triggers

To avoid heartburn, start by avoiding the foods, beverages, and activities that tend to affect you. Try making a list so you remember the foods and other things that trigger your heartburn. Of course, there will be times when you just can’t resist a spicy chili dog or a second helping of gumbo. And if you do get heartburn, with Rolaids® you’ll be ready.

Fortunately, the two active ingredients in Rolaids® — calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide — deliver effective, rapid relief for your heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion and upset stomach associated with these symptoms.

^†Antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs, so ask your doctor or a pharmacist before using Rolaids® if you are taking any prescription medication.

*Ask a doctor or a pharmacist before use if you are now taking a prescription drug. Antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs.