What is heartburn?
What is heartburn video PP-NEC-GBR-0214
When you eat or drink proton pumps in your stomach release acid which helps break down food and kill bacteria, because the stomach lining is protected this doesn't hurt at all. Usually the valve at the base of the oesophagus keeps the acid in the stomach so you never feel it. Sometimes that valve relaxes and allows acid to escape into the oesophagus, which has no protective lining. When the acid comes into contact with the oesophagus it can become sensitive and you may experience a burning sensation in your chest and throat. This is heartburn, and it can be quite painful. Frequent heartburn is heartburn that occurs twice a week or more the repeated flare-ups of frequent heartburn can disrupt sleep and get in the way of everyday life. Nexium Control is an effective way to treat frequent heartburn.
What causes heartburn?

Weight
Carrying extra weight can put pressure on your oesophageal valve and your stomach, allowing acid to rise up into your oesophagus.

Drink
Alcohol or fizzy drinks can trigger heartburn. If you do drink, do so in moderation and avoid lying down after drinking.

Pregnancy
The product is not indicated for use whilst pregnant.

Stress
Lack of sleep and stress can trigger heartburn by putting strain on your body, especially if you’re prone to it anyway.

Food
Spicy/acidic foods, rich/fatty foods and chocolate can trigger heartburn. Simply eating a big meal, eating too late at night, can also bring it on.

Smoking
Smoking can trigger heartburn or make it feel worse once it starts.Try to avoid smoking, especially before or after eating.
How can I relieve heartburn?

Think about what you eat before bed
Avoid foods or drinks that trigger heartburn for you. Cut out bedtime snacks or large meals late at night. Eat slowly and wait before lying down or exercising. Cutting down on alcohol, coffee or fizzy drinks can also help.

Stop smoking
Smoking can trigger heartburn or make it feel worse once it starts. Try to avoid smoking, especially before or after eating.

Take regular exercise
Whilst generally exercising and losing weight can often help, be mindful that certain exercises, such as stomach crunches can also push acid out of the stomach, causing heartburn.