Heartburn and reflux after 60: practical steps and red flags
Topic: Health Basics
Reading time: 3 min
Occasional heartburn happens. Persistent reflux can affect sleep, comfort, and (over time) the esophagus. This guide keeps it practical: what to try, what to track, and when to get checked.
Common triggers
- Large evening meals
- Alcohol
- Spicy/fatty foods (varies by person)
- Lying down soon after eating
Practical changes that often help
- Earlier dinner: give yourself a few hours before bed.
- Smaller portions at night: “lighter dinner, stronger breakfast.”
- Raise the head of the bed if nighttime reflux is the main issue.
- Track your personal triggers for one week.
Medication note: Acid-reducing medicines can be helpful, but long-term use should be guided by a clinician. Don’t self-manage indefinitely without check-ins.
Red flags (get checked promptly)
- Trouble swallowing or food “sticking”
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting blood or black/tarry stools
- Chest pain (especially with shortness of breath or sweating)
If you’re unsure whether chest discomfort is heartburn or heart-related, err on the side of safety and get urgent evaluation.
Ask your clinician (starter questions)
- “What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
- “What serious causes are we ruling out?”
- “Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
- “What’s the simplest next step?”
- “What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”
If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics or Common Issues.