Studies have shown that the use of antacids over a long period of time does lead to long term side effects.
Acid reflux is the flow of stomach acid back into the esophagus, which is the tube which connects the stomach and throat. When you are afflicted with acid reflux, you can suffer heartburn or perhaps a bitter taste in your mouth. If your only symptom is occasional heartburn there may be no cause for concern as many people suffer from it occasionally after eating or drinking to excess.
If intermittent heartburn is all you have, it can be managed by lifestyle changes or the occasional antacid tablet.
Magnesium hydroxide which is an ingredient in some antacids is known to cause diarrhea. Calcium carbonate, another ingredient in antacids can cause kidney damage with prolonged use, and aluminum hydroxide has been linked to weak bones. because of this, doctors recommend that you refrain from using antacids for long periods. If your heartburn still causes problems when you cease to use antacids, a visit to your doctor is essential as this may be an indicator of a more serious problem.
To determine the extent of your problem, an endoscopy will be performed. This is a procedure whereby a flexible tube is inserted into your esophagus and stomach through your mouth, so your doctor can examine the esophageal lining with a camera. Examinations such as these can indicate whether you have Barrett's esophagus which can be identified by a change in the color and composition of the cells in the lower esophagus. Barrett's esophagus can be a precursor to esophageal cancer.
lets hope that the examination of your esophagus does not indicate a condition such as Barrett's esophagus and you may be able to treat your reflux naturally. Proton pump inhibitors which can be used to block acid production are another option worth considering as a way of avoiding antacid tablets and their associated problems.
You should of course be guided by the advice of your doctor to determine the best alternative treatments.
Acid reflux is the flow of stomach acid back into the esophagus, which is the tube which connects the stomach and throat. When you are afflicted with acid reflux, you can suffer heartburn or perhaps a bitter taste in your mouth. If your only symptom is occasional heartburn there may be no cause for concern as many people suffer from it occasionally after eating or drinking to excess.
If intermittent heartburn is all you have, it can be managed by lifestyle changes or the occasional antacid tablet.
Magnesium hydroxide which is an ingredient in some antacids is known to cause diarrhea. Calcium carbonate, another ingredient in antacids can cause kidney damage with prolonged use, and aluminum hydroxide has been linked to weak bones. because of this, doctors recommend that you refrain from using antacids for long periods. If your heartburn still causes problems when you cease to use antacids, a visit to your doctor is essential as this may be an indicator of a more serious problem.
To determine the extent of your problem, an endoscopy will be performed. This is a procedure whereby a flexible tube is inserted into your esophagus and stomach through your mouth, so your doctor can examine the esophageal lining with a camera. Examinations such as these can indicate whether you have Barrett's esophagus which can be identified by a change in the color and composition of the cells in the lower esophagus. Barrett's esophagus can be a precursor to esophageal cancer.
lets hope that the examination of your esophagus does not indicate a condition such as Barrett's esophagus and you may be able to treat your reflux naturally. Proton pump inhibitors which can be used to block acid production are another option worth considering as a way of avoiding antacid tablets and their associated problems.
You should of course be guided by the advice of your doctor to determine the best alternative treatments.
About the Author:
Antony Wilton is regarded as an expert on acid reflux His site, acid reflux and heartburn is full of up to date information.
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