Frequent heartburn and acidity after meals may be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis. These symptoms can occur even when eating normal food without much spice.
For symptom relief, she may benefit from:
1. Pantoprazole 40 mg once daily, 30–60 minutes before breakfast, for an initial 14 days, provided she is an adult, not
pregnant, and has no contraindications.
2. An antacid or alginate preparation for occasional immediate relief.
I would also advise the following lifestyle modifications:
- Avoid lying down for at least 2–3 hours after meals.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Reduce tea, coffee, oily foods and other foods that trigger symptoms.
- Avoid eating late at night.
- Elevate the head end of the bed if she experiences nighttime symptoms.
Since she experiences acidity frequently, I recommend consulting a physician for proper evaluation. If symptoms persist, further investigations, including an upper GI endoscopy or testing for H. pylori when indicated, may be required.
If she develops difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, black stools or severe chest pain, she should seek prompt medical attention.