Symptomatic relief refers to the alleviation of symptoms associated with a medical condition, rather than treating the underlying cause. This approach focuses on reducing discomfort and improving quality of life for patients. Common methods include medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes that target specific symptoms like pain, nausea, or anxiety. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can provide symptomatic relief for headaches or muscle aches. Similarly, antacids can help relieve symptoms of heartburn. While these treatments can be effective, they do not cure the underlying condition, so ongoing medical evaluation may still be necessary.