Which antacid is best. Heartburn is a condition characterized by burning sensation in the chest and sourness or bitterness in the mouth. Heartburn usually occurs when the acidic component of the stomach flows backward or the esophagus returns to the esophagus (the muscular duct carrying food from the throat to the stomach). About once a week, about 1 in 10 adults experience heartburn. Heartburn is more prevalent in pregnant women because it puts pressure on the uterus to spread to the stomach.
Antacids are drugs that act by increasing the pH balance in the stomach. Americans now spend nearly $ 1 billion annually on antacids. This is because antacids can quickly relieve symptoms associated with occasional heartburn and indigestion. Although they may cause trouble for some people, most people can safely take antacids. Consumers who follow the instructions using antacids only for a certain period of time are less likely to experience serious side effects. However, antacids may not be necessary, and if used erroneously, they can have serious consequences. Frequent use over a long period of time can cause irreparable damage to the heart, kidney and bone. Occasionally, even when used sparingly, antacids can cause problems with people with special illness.
My first suggestion was to use antacids such as Tums (or general equivalent) as needed. Antacids are ideal for lighter symptoms and immediate relief. They will work in a few minutes! However, please keep away antacids containing aspirin as it may cause bleeding in the stomach. Please note that aspirin is included in Alka Seltzer Original and others. If the other two drugs do not work, the next option is PPI. This represents a proton pump inhibitor. Super fancy, now we will call them PPI. PPI has proved to be the most effective acid reflux control, but at the expense of potential side effects. PPI has many choices, but there is only cheapest PPI. There is no research showing that one is superior to the other. But for you, your body may prefer one more than others. Therefore, if the brand does not work, switch to another brand. Again, there is no evidence that one is superior to the other.