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Acidity problem

Discussion in 'All Categories' started by Manish - Jun 18th, 2024 8:51 am.
Manish	I have acidity problem. What treatment options are available for managing acidity? Are there any medications you recommend, and what are their potential side effects?
re: Acidity problem by Dr. B. S. Bhalla - Jun 18th, 2024 8:57 am #1
Dr. B. S. Bhalla	Managing acidity, also known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medications. Here are some treatment options: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can help prevent the stomach from becoming too full and reduce the production of stomach acid. Avoid trigger foods and drinks: Common triggers include spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the abdomen, pushing up the stomach and causing acid to back up into the esophagus. Avoid lying down after eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. Elevate the head of your bed: Raising the head of the bed by 6-8 inches can help prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Avoid smoking: Smoking can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to escape from the stomach into the esophagus. Medications Antacids: Examples: Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta. How they work: Neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief. Side effects: Constipation or diarrhea, depending on the main ingredients. H2 Receptor Blockers: Examples: Ranitidine (Zantac), Famotidine (Pepcid), Cimetidine (Tagamet). How they work: Reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces. Side effects: Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, or nausea. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Examples: Omeprazole (Prilosec), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Pantoprazole (Protonix). How they work: Block the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. Side effects: Headache, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and long-term use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, magnesium deficiency, and an increased risk of fractures. Prokinetics: Examples: Metoclopramide (Reglan), Domperidone. How they work: Help the stomach empty more quickly and reduce the chance of acid reflux. Side effects: Fatigue, drowsiness, diarrhea, and, in rare cases, movement disorders. Alginate Drugs: Examples: Gaviscon. How they work: Form a protective barrier that floats on top of the stomach contents to reduce acid reflux. Side effects: Generally well-tolerated but may cause bloating and nausea in some people.