Occasional digestive problems, such as indigestion and heartburn, may be treated with calcium carbonate, an over-the-counter antacid that helps neutralize acid in your stomach and esophagus, according to Drugs.com. Calcium carbonate is not recommended for everyone and may interact with certain medications and cause adverse side effects. Before using calcium citrate to treat digestive complications, talk with your doctor. If you develop indigestion or heartburn on a consistent basis or calcium carbonate does not alleviate your symptoms, call your doctor.
Indigestion and Heartburn
Indigestion and heartburn can make you feel discomfort in your upper abdomen or give you a feeling of being overly full. You may also develop a feeling of heat, pain or burning between your belly button and your breastbone, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Other symptoms that may develop from indigestion include bloating and nausea. Indigestion is not the same condition as heartburn but typically causes heartburn. Common causes of indigestion include eating too fast, overeating, drinking too much alcohol, eating spicy foods, eating high-fat foods, high-fiber foods, consuming too much caffeine and smoking tobacco.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is an essential mineral that naturally occurs in foods. Calcium carbonate maintains various bodily functions, such as bone density and maintenance. The mineral is commonly used in supplement form for people who are calcium deficient or if you experience indigestion. Drugs.com states that taking calcium carbonate may prohibit the absorption of certain medications, and it should not be taken if you have a history of kidney stones or a parathyroid disorder. Calcium carbonate is used to treat indigestion because it helps reduce the amount of acid in your stomach and throat. Excessive acid is the cause of indigestion.
Side Effects
Calcium carbonate may cause unwanted side effects, such as dry mouth, increased thirst, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation and increased urination. Report any of these side effects to your doctor for evaluation. It's possible to develop an allergic reaction to this supplement, which could lead to serious complications. Drugs.com states that an allergic reaction can cause trouble breathing, hives, skin rashes, facial swelling, lip swelling and throat swelling. If not treated, you may lose your ability to breathe normally, become lightheaded and dizzy and lose consciousness.
Considerations
A common side effect of calcium carbonate is constipation. If you notice a change in your bowel movements after taking calcium carbonate, call your doctor. Constipation is identified by hard, dry stools that occur less than three times in one week. If your digestive problems do not improve, talk with your doctor.
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