How to Know When You Should Take Acid Reflux Medication
45604
Disease & Illness
Sep 6, 2007
apple33p
How to Know When You Should Take Acid Reflux Medication
Acid reflux is medically referred to as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). As the name indicates, this is characterized by the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus. It is a very common problem and many of us would have surely faced the symptoms of acid reflux. Symptoms of acid reflux disease are heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation of food into the mouth etc. Often the burning sensation or the heartburn gets so worse, that it seems to be a heart attack. Occasional symptoms appear because of eating of spicy foods or indigestion. But if these occur 2-3 times a week, then it surely indicates that there is something wrong with the digestive system. The most common trend that people follow is to pop up an antacid. Though there is nothing wrong in doing, and it certainly gives instant relief, but for how long? Acid reflux is an internal digestive system disorder where the lower esophageal sphincter valve opens up under acidic pressure, causing the undigested food and acid to be thrown back into the food pipe, causing an irritable burning sensation in the throat area. This internal problem can be permanently treated only by surgery but in 95% of the cases, lifestyle changes and medications give substantial relief. Surgery is done in very rare conditions. Acid Reflux Medicine and You There are N numbers of reasons that can cause acid reflux problem. Some of these being wrong food habits, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, obesity, undeveloped sphincter valve as in case of infants, etc. Among all the above mentioned reasons, the most commonly seen is wrong food habits. To eliminate the reason of wrong eating habits, one needs to follow an active lifestyle and develop a menu plan that needs to be followed religiously. By observing the symptoms and reaction of your body towards various food products, one may be able to judge which foods to be included and which to be eliminated. Though the guidelines that are compulsory for every acid reflux diet include, avoiding rich and spicy food, food cooked in excess oil or fat and excess carbohydrates. In cases where lifestyle changes have little or no effect whatsoever on acid reflux problems, these can be combined with medications. Medicines for acid reflux can vary from over the counter medications to prescription medicines. Nowadays, even some prescription medications are available in lower strength as over the counter medicines. However, it is always better to consult a physician before administering any drug for acid reflux relief. Alternative approaches to treat Acid Reflux One of the alternative approaches mentioned above is making lifestyle changes. The other approaches are avoiding bed at least 2-3 hours after meals, keeping the headboard of your bed inclined by around 30 degrees, sleeping sideways etc. Then there are herbal and homeopathic medications that seem to be side effect free and are considerably effective in treating acid reflux problems. Though the alternative medications work quite well, but chronic acid reflux can best be treated using prescription medications suggested by doctor. The doctor may take some time to decide on the most effective medication for you before advising you for tests such as endoscopies, barium X-Rays etc. Acid Reflux Medications and how they work A good number of antacids are available over the counter and these provide instant relief from acid reflux by stopping the burning sensation or heartburn. But regular use of antacids is not recommended. Mylanta, Gelusil are the most popularly used antacids. Then there is a group of medication known as H2 Block Receptors. These are not so fast in action as the antacids, but they work by reducing the amount of acid being produced by the stomach. Ranitidine, Famotidine, Cimetidine are some mediations belonging to this group. Apart from these, there is yet another group of mediation which is known as the proton pump inhibitors which work by actually promoting the healing of the esophageal lining, caused by constant acid attack. Nexium, Prilosec are some drugs under this category. Though, there are a number of medications that can be taken for relief from acid reflux, these are recommended for short term use. Each of these medications comes with its own set of side effects, most of which are upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting etc. The symptoms however, subside after a few days use. In cases where there can be prolonged trouble, the physician should be consulted. Final Word about Medications Medications are prescribed for relief from acid reflux problems. But it is to be kept in mind that lifestyle changes are a must and it cannot be compromised or neglected just because one is taking medications. Acid reflux, if chronic can cause a severe damage to the esophagus lining and can give rise to cancers of the esophagus. Medications should be judiciously used after consultation with a physician and in proper dosages.
Cindy Heller is a professional writer. Visit acid reflux explained to learn more about acid reflux and pregnancy and acid reflux test.
send email to apple33p
Write a Review
Add to My Favorite
Refer it to Friend
Report Article
Other links owned by this user
Today, fast food became a way of life. Some studies have shown that by just eating two such meals a week, exactly what they ate didn't seem to matter much.
Category:
There are many different types of yoga and each has its own traits and benefits. By picking up the fundamental on each and every type of yoga, you can determine what is suitable for you.
Category:
There are many diseases that can arise from obesity, including high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, type II diabetes, and even some forms of cancer.
Category:
Infant or newborn acid reflux is the scientific term used when a baby throws up. This is a familiar condition that is experienced by infants under the age of 12 months.
Category:
Although yoga does not require too much accessories, the usefulness of yoga accessories cannot be doubted as it will make you more relaxed and secure.
Category:
Acid reflux is medically referred to as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). As the name indicates, this is characterized by the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus.
Category:
Botanical gardens are places where a enormous variety of plants are developed, usually for scientific purposes.
Category:
Lots of acutely differing concerns have to be taken into consideration with regards to the issue of prostate health. Men undergo transformation as they ages and the body will experience internal and external changes.
Category:
Caribbean cruise vacation is the ultimate deal and if you have not tried it, now is the time to be treated like royalty while you spend times on the idyllic tropical islands. There is no vacation that offers more and since there are numerous packages to c
Category:
Manually counting coins everyday can be a tiresome and boring task. It is also a great waste of your valuable time. If you own a business which accepts coins as payment such as a laundry or car wash business, manually counting the coins from your daily sa
Category:
There are many fishers know fly fishing trip in Alaska is a very big market and filled with large opportunity that no one should miss. For beginners, you also can find a good fly fishing school there.
Category:
An effective and proper acid reflux diet plan includes knowing what food to avoid, what food to consume and good eating habits. In this short article, we shall go through some important guidelines that you can take away.
Category:
When a woman finds out that she is infertile, it can be devastating. Just the sensation of knowing that she can't conceive children is a very discourage experience.
Category:
So many people are talking about hoodia now; newspapers, television reports, even Hollywood stars. Hoodia is the new dietary supplement for weight loss made from a South African Cactus. It's all-natural, with no added stimulants and makes your body feel l
Category:
An experienced fisher knows, in order to fully enjoy the fishing expedition, all the necessary fly fishing supplies must bring along. If you has engage a guide, sometimes the company may supply you some fishing supplies, such as vest, reels, fly lines and
Category:
Setting up backyard gardens is the surest way to invite butterflies into your home. If you happen to have a big space at the back of your home, it would be a good idea for you and your family to start planning for your backyard gardens.
Category:
Sleep is defined as a state of unconsciousness from which a person can be aroused. While sleeping the human brain is relatively more responsive to internal stimuli than the external stimuli.
Category:
Acid reflux occurs when the acid from the stomach escapes into the esophagus. The sufferer of this condition often experiences a burning sensation, thus a painful one.
Category:
Hoodia is a great weight loss solution however you want to make sure that you only use certified Hoodia products. After all there are certainly those products that either include Hoodia as an ingredient or simply claim that they do.
Category:
When it comes to the dangers of hoodia, there is really no need for alarm as hoodia remains a relatively safe product with no dangerous side effects. Hoodia is a natural product that derives from a cactus plant in Africa and is not tainted with chemicals
Category:
Other links at Disease & Illness
Experts have predicted that 1.7m people will have dementia by 2051. There are currently 700,000 people in the UK with dementia, that is one in every 88 people. By 2021, the figure is expected to rise to 940,110, before reaching 1,735,087 in 2051.
Category:
Article discusses the idea that drug addiction is actually a disease, and how a drug rehab center can possibly cure that disease.
Category:
Prostate treatments, traditional or alternative, may complement each other in fighting prostate disorders. It is up to the patient to identify the combination that works best.
Category:
If you have a snoring problem or your spouse or someone in your household does, the following natural tips may help you stop snoring or finally give you some relief.
Category:
Site Sponsor
Directory Statistics
Articles: 68285
Categories: 501
Yahoo Entertainment
