Self-care includes antacids, eating smaller meals more often, chewing food thoroughly, losing weight, and avoiding trigger foods, such as fatty foods, or carbonated drinks.

See a doctor immediately if:

• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Severe pain
• Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss
• Black, tarry stools
• Vomiting, especially vomiting with blood

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Symptoms last more than two weeks
• Difficulty swallowing
• Over-the-counter medications don't help