If I have heartburn, should I see my health care provider?

That depends. If you have heartburn more than 3 times a week for at least 2 weeks, you should see your health care provider. On the other hand, if you have occasional bouts of heartburn, you may find that taking nonprescription antacids and making some simple changes in your lifestyle can stop it. If these measures do not help, then a visit to your health care provider is warranted.

If you have any of these symptoms, with or without heartburn, you should call your doctor or go to a hospital emergency department right away:

• Throwing up blood or passing blood in your bowel movements
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• Severe pain, dizziness, or lightheadedness
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• Difficulty swallowing
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• Dehydration
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• Unintentional weight loss

With proper understanding of the condition and treatment, you can find relief.

When I have chest pain, how can I tell whether it is my heart or just heartburn?

Sometimes you can't tell the difference. Just like chest pain from your heart, heartburn sometimes spreads from your chest to your jaw, shoulders, arms, or back. If you have chest pain for any reason, seek medical care immediately.