Understanding your Heartburn

Heartburn. It can put a serious damper on a night out with friends, that delicious late-night burger craving, or even just enjoying a relaxing evening in. You're young, vibrant, and social – and you shouldn't have to compromise on the good stuff just because of a little heartburn pain.

We hear you loud and clear. Sometimes, heartburn hits hard and fast, and reaching for an antacid feels like the most natural thing in the world. After all, it provides quick relief, and that's what matters most in the moment. But the team behind Quick-Eze® we believe there's more to the story. We're all about empowering you to manage heartburn effectively, while still enjoying the delicious food and drinks you love.

Discover everything you need to know about heartburn and how to manage it – from understanding the causes to discovering tasty remedies that actually work. Let’s get you back to enjoying life, full flavour and all!

What is Heartburn?

Ever enjoyed a delicious meal, only to be met with an uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest afterwards? That could be a sign of heartburn. But what's actually happening inside your body to cause this fiery discomfort?

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid backs up into your oesophagus, the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. Normally, a muscular valve at the bottom of your oesophagus (called the lower oesophageal sphincter or LES) acts as a one-way street, keeping stomach acid where it belongs. However, when this valve weakens or relaxes at the wrong time, acid can sneak back up, causing irritation and that burning feeling in your chest. This can happen for a variety of reasons, which we'll delve into in the next section. But for now, the key takeaway is that heartburn is a signal from your body that something's not quite right. By understanding what's causing the discomfort, you can take steps to manage it and get back to enjoying life.

Causes of Heartburn: Unveiling the Culprits

Let's face it, nobody enjoys that burning feeling in your chest. Understanding what causes heartburn is the first step to taking control and getting back to enjoying life to the fullest.

So, let's break down some of the most common heartburn triggers:

Food & Drink

Spicy dishes, citrusy cocktails, and those melt-in-your mouth fatty foods – we love them all! But for some, these delicious treats can relax the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), the muscular valve between your stomach and oesophagus. This allows stomach acid to creep up and cause that burning sensation. We all have different sensitivities, so figuring out your personal food and drink triggers is key.

Lifestyle Choices

Often, it's not only about what you eat but also how you eat and live. Factors like overindulgence, stress, wearing tight-fitting clothing, or even the timing of your workouts can trigger heartburn. Many other lifestyle factors can also play a sneaky role in causing those fiery flare-ups. By becoming more mindful of your daily habits, you can take control and effectively manage heartburn, enabling you to get back to enjoying life.

Pregnancy

For expecting moms, pregnancy is a whirlwind of amazing changes, and sometimes those changes can include some not-so-pleasant surprises like heartburn. As your little one grows inside you, the uterus can put pressure on the stomach, increasing the chances of heartburn. Pregnancy hormones can also relax the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), making it easier for it to creep up, leading to that familiar burning sensation.

This list isn't exhaustive, but it gives you a good starting point for understanding what might be triggering your heartburn. By identifying your personal culprits and making some adjustments, you may be able to reduce those fiery episodes .

Want to learn more about what causes heartburn?

Dive deeper into all things heartburn to learn about the root causes and discover ways to find relief.

Common Digestive Disorders

Suffering from that burning chest pain or a sour taste after meals? This guide dives into common digestive issues like heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. Learn how to recognise the signs, understand what triggers them, and discover different remedies for fast relief. Get back to enjoying your day without the discomfort!

Heartburn During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a journey of joy and transformation, filled with the anticipation of welcoming a new life into the world. However, as the human body changes, it also comes with its own set of unique challenges. For many women, heartburn is right at the top of that list.

Heartburn Symptoms That May Be Disrupting your Lifestyle

Heartburn symptoms can sometimes disrupt your plans and leave you wishing you could just enjoy life without that little fire in your chest. So, how do you know if it really is heartburn causing that discomfort in your gut?

The burn: This is one of the classic symptoms of heartburn – that burning sensation in the centre of your chest, right behind your breastbone. It can feel like a fire rising from your stomach and sometimes travel all the way up to your throat.
Acidic aftertaste: Ever experience a sour or acidic taste in the back of your mouth? This unpleasant sensation can be a tell-tale sign of heartburn, reminding you of the unwelcome guest in your digestive system.
Throat irritation: The burning sensation might travel up your oesophagus and even into your throat, creating a scratchy or irritated feeling. This can sometimes be mistaken for a sore throat, adding to the confusion.
Food backup: In some cases, heartburn can cause a small amount of food or stomach acid to rise back up into your mouth. While some may know how unpleasant this feeling is , it’s not necessarily harmful.

Remember that these are just some of the common heartburn symptoms, but everyone experiences heartburn differently. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms frequently, it’s important to consult your doctor to rule out any other underlying medical conditions.

Remedies for Heartburn Relief

You really shouldn’t have to settle for a life of bland food and missed social gatherings. So, what really helps to relieve heartburn? There’s a range of heartburn relief options, from simple lifestyle changes to natural remedies and antacids. Learning about the different tools to manage heartburn effectively is the first step in reclaiming your enjoyment of food and life.

How to stop heartburn triggers with dietary tweaks

The first line of defence against heartburn pain often sits right on your plate. That’s why it's so important to identify what your personal food and drink triggers are. Below are some common contributors to your heartburn symptoms:

Spicy foods: If it’s a known issue for you, consider going mild or skipping spice altogether as it can irritate your digestive system and trigger heartburn.
Citrus: While refreshing, the acidity of fruits like oranges or grapefruits can be problematic for some. Opt for less acidic fruits like berries or melons.
Fatty foods: Fatty foods like burgers, fried favourites and rich desserts take longer to digest, putting pressure on your stomach and increasing the chance of heartburn. Enjoy them in moderation or choose leaner protein options.
Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks can irritate your stomach lining and weaken the lower oesophageal sphincter, leading to heartburn. If boozy beverages are a regular heartburn culprit, consider moderation or explore some delicious non-alcoholic alternatives!

How to alleviate symptoms of heartburn with lifestyle changes

Lifestyle adjustments can make a huge difference in managing your symptoms. Here are some tips you can try:

Eat smaller and more frequently: Overeating stretches your stomach and puts pressure on the muscle that keeps stomach acid down. Choose smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to keep your digestive system working smoothly and comfortably.
Chew thoroughly: Chewing your food properly breaks it down more effectively, making digestion easier on your system.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to hunger cues. Stop eating when you feel satisfied, not stuffed, and leave the table feeling comfortable.
Find your calm zone: Chronic stress can cause problems throughout your entire body, including your digestive system. Try techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to help manage stress.

Over the counter heartburn relief

Whether you're a seasoned heartburn warrior or a newcomer to the discomfort zone, there are a few over-the-counter solutions waiting to be your partner in crime. Let's explore the three main players:

H2 Blockers

H2 blockers work behind the scenes, reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces in the first place. Imagine them as turning down the heat on the stove

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton Pump Inhibitors, also called PPIs, are an of over-the-counter heartburn medication. They work similarly to H2 blockers in that they both work to reduce stomach acid production, offering relief for frequent heartburn.

Antacids

Fast-acting antacids are another option to combat heartburn. Antacids work by quickly neutralising stomach acid, providing relief within minutes. They come in various forms like chewable tablets, liquids, and even dissolvable powders for on-the-go convenience. While antacids can provide quick relief, they don't address the root cause of heartburn. They’re a great option to fit into your lifestyle, however, if you experience frequent heartburn remember to consult your doctor.

Looking for more tips on how to relieve heartburn?

Discover our collection of valuable tips and strategies to help you alleviate the discomfort and effectively manage your heartburn.

Different Heartburn Treatments

Ever feel like a delicious meal comes with an uninvited guest? Yep, we're talking about heartburn. That uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest can show up after a night of fun or a peaceful snooze. You're not alone – it's a familiar discomfort for many of us.

Learn about different heartburn treatments

Need some help for quick heartburn relief?

Dietary adjustments and lifestyle tweaks are powerful tools to manage heartburn, but sometimes you need a little extra help at the moment. We get it – when heartburn strikes, you need relief fast, and having options readily available can make a big difference. Our range of Quick-Eze® antacids are here to deliver just that – heartburn relief that you can count on, with a taste you’ll actually enjoy. Explore our antacid tablets and chewable antacids which come in a range of flavours.

Image	Image	Image
Quick-Eze® Original Tablet Rapid Heartburn & Indigestion Relief	Chewy Quick-Eze® Peppermint Rapid Heartburn & Indigestion Relief	Chewy Quick-Eze® Forest Berry Rapid Heartburn & Indigestion Relief
Each convenient on-the-go stick pack fits easily in your purse or pocket, so you can relieve heartburn and get back to enjoying life's delicious moments, wherever you are.	Our Peppermint Chewy antacids come in convenient, pocket-sized packs and are a delicious way to relieve your heartburn.	These handy chewy antacids fit anywhere, so you can relieve discomfort wherever it strikes. Take a chewable tablet , feel the relief, and get back to enjoying life's delicious adventures, fully prepared!
See more about Quick-Eze® Original	See more about Chewy Quick-Eze® Peppermint	See more about Chewy Quick-Eze® Forest Berry

[1] https://mydr.com.au/gastrointestinal-health/heartburn-treatments/

Heartburn FAQs

Why do I get heartburn all of a sudden?

Heartburn can come out of nowhere, thanks to all sorts of things: what you eat (think spicy or fatty foods), how you live (stress and smoking), or even because of underlying health conditions. If heartburn becomes a frequent visitor, there might be an underlying condition at play. And remember, if heartburn becomes a regular issue, your doctor is your best partner in finding the root cause and crafting a treatment plan for you. With some smart choices and a supportive healthcare professional by your side, you can relieve heartburn and live life to the fullest!

What does heartburn feel like?

Ever feel that burning sensation creeping up your chest? That could be heartburn, and it's more common than you might think. It can feel like a fire behind your breastbone, sometimes reaching your throat, and leaving a sour or bitter taste behind. Bending over or lying down can make it worse.

The good news is, there's often a reason for this discomfort, and it's usually linked to something you ate or drank, or maybe your stress levels. Antacids are always a great option for when you want to alleviate your symptoms quickly. But if that burning feeling becomes a frequent visitor, or feels particularly intense, don't hesitate to chat with your doctor. They can help you understand the cause and find ways to soothe the fire, so you can get back to feeling your best!

How long does heartburn last?

The intensity and duration can vary depending on what triggered it and how your body reacts. In most cases, that burning feeling might only last a few minutes, but some factors like food choices, stress, and lifestyle habits can make it linger for a few hours. The good news? You're in control! By making smart tweaks to your diet, managing stress, and introducing antacids into your lifestyle for relief of heartburn symptoms , you can significantly reduce how long that fiery sensation sticks around. However, if you find yourself battling frequent or intense heartburn, don't hesitate to partner with a healthcare professional. They can help identify the cause and develop a personalised treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best, fast!

Does drinking water help heartburn?

A sip of H2O can be a real lifesaver when heartburn strikes. Why? Water works in two ways. First, it acts like a diluting agent, weakening that strong stomach acid that's causing the burning sensation. Second, swallowing water can actually help wash some of that acid back down where it belongs, diluting the excess in your oesophagus.