Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is a common condition that causes a burning sensation in the stomach. It is a common problem among many people, as it occurs very often. Acid reflux, in scientific terms, is also known as GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
What causes heartburn, or the causes behind GERD?
The backwards movement of stomach acid causes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This acid enters the lower part of the oesophagus; it can produce a burning sensation in the heart. Heartburn can be caused by various reasons such as spicy food, excessive caffeine, citrus fruits and veggies, hormonal disturbances, stress, tension, alcohol consumption, etc.
How to get rid of heartburn, or what helps with heartburn?
Heartburn is largely treatable with acid-reducing medications. Acid reducer drugs are easily available in the market and on online platforms to treat heartburn:
The options that work to reduce stomach acid production include:
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- Histamineantagonists (h2 antagonists or h2 blockers)
- Proton pump inhibitors
There are a large number of acid-reducing drugs; the examples of H2 blocker drugs are:
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- Cimetidine
- Nizatidine
- Famotidine
- Ranitidine, etc.
Some examples of proton pump inhibitors are:
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- Lansoprazole
- Esomeprazole
- Omeprazole, etc.
These medications are used to relieve the heartburn symptoms, making the condition easier for the person. These drugs are all OTC drugs that can be used for stomach acid relief. For the safe use of medicines, it is always advisable to consult your doctor to determine the best medicine that suits you. He will examine your condition to understand the severity before prescribing the treatment and medicine that can help you achieve relief from the heartburn problem.
Antacids for acid reflux:
Antacids are quite helpful in providing relief from heartburn and are prescribed to relieve excess gas in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms. Some of the examples of antacids are:
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- Alka-Seltzer
- Pepto-Bismol
- Alternagel
- Amphojel
- Milk of Magnesia
- Gaviscon
- Gelusil
- Rolaids, etc.
Antacids are available in various forms, including tablets, syrups, and chewable tablets. There are certain side effects associated with antacids, including constipation, stomachache, cramps, diarrhea, etc.
How does acid reducer help heartburn?
One can experience relief from heartburn by taking prescribed medicine and opting for natural remedies. Relief from heartburn is often achieved when accompanied by the right natural remedies. For severe cases of GERD, medication is recommended.
Acid reducers and antacids – These are combination medications that contain both acid reducers and antacids. An example of the combination is Pepcid. The antacids neutralize stomach acid, thereby easing stomach acidity.
Foods that cure stomach acid:
Certain foods and beverages can help alleviate the discomfort caused by stomach acidity by naturally neutralizing stomach acid. These include:
Bananas: This is a low-acid fruits that help alleviate the symptoms of heartburn. The bananas relieve the irritation caused by acidity on the inner lining of the oesophagus. The mushy nature of bananas forms a layer, and the coating protects the same.
Ginger: Another stomach acid cure is ginger; you can easily enjoy the benefits of ginger by taking it in the form of ginger tea. It is anti-inflammatory and is considered one of the most effective treatments for acid reflux.
Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a very healthy option for treating acid reflux problems. One bowl of oatmeal not only satisfies your hunger, but it also forms a coating or layer on the inner lining of the oesophagus.
Leafy veggies: Heartburn can be treated very easily if you grab a bowl of green leafy vegetables in the form of a salad. Avoid adding any creamy dressing to the leafy veggies, as it is the reason behind the acidity. Replace the cream with lemon juice or olive oil to make the veggies less irritating.
Fennel: It is one of the finest healing herbs. It is good to reduce acid reflux. You can simply chew the fennel seeds not only to freshen your breath but also to help keep your acid reflux in check.
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