How does TUMS work to provide relief from acid indigestion and heartburn?

Antacids, such as TUMS, have a direct and local effect in the esophagus and stomach. TUMS reacts upon contact with the acid and neutralizes it. Heartburn pain results from regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus. If the acid is neutralized, an important factor causing the irritation is removed and heartburn is relieved.

What are symptoms of heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning feeling rising from the stomach to the chest and up to the neck. Symptoms may include a sense of fullness in the middle of the chest and a bitter taste in the mouth or throat. Sometimes heartburn may bring on chest pain that can be mistaken for the pain of heart disease, but it is important to note that heartburn is not related to the heart at all. If you are concerned about this pain, consult your physician.

Are certain foods more likely to cause heartburn?

Different foods cause heartburn for different reasons. Some cause the stomach to produce extra acid and some cause the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach to loosen, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus. Consuming fatty, greasy or spicy foods, alcohol, tomato products, peppermint, spearmint, citrus fruits and juices, caffeinated products, chocolate, milk, onion, and pepper can result in heartburn in some people. Some medications can also cause heartburn.

Is heartburn only triggered by eating certain foods?

No. Heartburn is usually caused by incompetence or weakness of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Certain conditions can trigger heartburn, such as hiatal hernia, excessive acid production, obesity and pregnancy. Stress, smoking, prescription medications and vigorous exercise also can play a role, and heartburn tends to become more common with age.