1. GERD Is Serious
Gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) is also called heartburn and acid reflux. It's the stomach's way of sending offensive gas back up the esophagus into the mouth. GERD burns as it comes up, passing the heart region, which is where the term heartburn came from. It is really bad acids that cannot be digested correctly that are passing through. Prolonged, untreated acid reflux can cause permanent damage to the esophagus, stomach and throat.
2. Chew the Chalk
Chewy antacid tablets such as Tums soothe the burning and neutralize the acid. They come in many flavors to mask the chalky consistency, which is a result of some form of aluminum from which they are made. Antacids can be popped regularly with little side effects, though too many tablets full of calcium can cause constipation. Older adults are actually encouraged to eat antacids, which are often filled with calcium too. Calcium carbonate is an aluminum byproduct used in many of the chewy tablets.
3. Drink it Back Down
While tablets are easier to carry and more discreet to use, the liquid form of heartburn relief can soothe that burning sensation quickly. Products such as Mylanta and Maalox coat the throat as they go down. You'll feel relief a little faster with liquid antacids, but side effects may also crop up a little quicker. Diarrhea from GERD medication containing magnesium occurs from drinking too much of the liquid form of antacids.
4. Longer Lasting Relief
Many drugs that contain histamine-2 blockers have been produced in lower doses over recent years, making them available over the counter. Higher doses of drugs such as Zantac and Pepcid still require a doctor's prescription. These drugs work at the source of the reflux to lower the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Histamine-2 blockers can interact with other medications and decrease the body's ability to process caffeine, so drinking coffee while on this type of acid blocker can cause insomnia and the jitters.
5. Proton Pumpers
The longest lasting and newest heartburn relief medications include proton pump inhibitors. These medications are marketed under names such as Nexium and Prilosec. These new drugs have been proven effective in daily doses to keep the burning at bay also by blocking acid secretion in the stomach. They are more powerful and must be taken under medical supervision. There can be dangerous side effects when taken with other medications, and users also report stomachaches, headaches, nausea and gas pretty regularly.
