If a person has frequent symptoms, would you suggest that they take that preventively every night, before going to bed?
MICHAEL WOLFE, MD: The problem with taking this medication preventively is that the H2 blocker, if taken at high doses often enough, will actually lose its effect. We develop a tolerance to the medication. They're best suited for taking on an intermittent basis.
Should people try to set a certain period of time between their dinner and their bedtime?
JAMES FRESTON, MD, PhD: Yes, that helps. Give yourself two hours after eating, before bedtime. At least. If you've taken a very heavy or large meal, allow for even more time.
How does nighttime alcohol affect heartburn?
JAMES FRESTON, MD, PhD: It makes it worse. Those people who have a drink at night should take the antacid before the fire starts.
Are there certain foods that people should avoid?
JAMES FRESTON, MD, PhD: It's largely a myth that spicy foods and hot foods cause heartburn. They may cause discomfort down in the abdomen, but that is dyspepsia, a different condition altogether.
Heartburn itself is commonly provoked by fatty foods, citrus, chocolate and lots of coffee. These are the major offenders.
