We often experience a sensation of acidity and burning in the chest and abdomen, especially after consuming a large meal or one full of delicious fried foods or maybe a morning cup of coffee.
While it may not be serious if it occurs only occasionally, persistent acidity over a long period can escalate into more significant issues, such as esophageal stricture or even esophageal cancer in rare cases.
Therefore, how do you treat acidity and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? And what are the best heartburn and acidity medications available at the pharmacy?
Causes of Acidity and Heartburn
Several factors contribute to heartburn and the sensation of acidity, including:
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Certain Foods: Consuming specific foods, such as spicy or fatty dishes, chocolate, or coffee can relax the sphincter located between the esophagus and the stomach, leading to stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.
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Lifestyle Factors: These include being overweight, smoking, wearing tight clothing, eating large meals, lying down immediately after eating, or pregnancy.
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Medications: Heartburn is a common side effect of certain drugs, such as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and high blood pressure medications, as they may irritate the esophagus or contribute to the relaxation of the esophageal sphincter.
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Medical Conditions: Such as a hiatal hernia.
Symptoms of Heartburn
The most prominent symptoms of acidity and heartburn include:
1. A Burning Sensation in the Chest or Throat
This is one of the hallmark signs of acidity. The sensation is often described as a painful burning feeling that usually occurs after eating and can be felt in the chest or throat when acid flows back into the esophagus.
2. Sour Taste in the Mouth
Heartburn is often accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth. This occurs when stomach acid rises to the throat, affecting the taste buds.
3. Bloating or Burping
Acidity can cause a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen. Frequent burping is also common as the body attempts to expel excess gas built up due to indigestion.
4. Nausea
The discomfort resulting from acidity may lead to feelings of nausea. In severe cases, it can progress to vomiting.
The Dangers of Persistent Acidity Symptoms
Heartburn often causes no real harm, as a certain amount of acid reflux is normal, and most people do not feel it at all. However, if heartburn occurs regularly, the lining of the esophagus may not have enough time to heal between episodes. Continuous injury to the esophageal lining can lead to long-term complications, such as:
1. Esophageal Stricture
When the tissues lining the esophagus are constantly inflamed, they may eventually begin to replace themselves with scar tissue. Since the esophagus is essentially a long tube, this inflammation and scarring lead to a narrowing (stricture), which can cause problems or difficulty swallowing.
2. Intestinal Metaplasia
Sometimes, instead of scarring, the tissue undergoes a different type of change. The lining of the esophagus changes to look more like the lining of the intestines. This change is considered a precursor to cancer later on.
3. Esophageal Cancer
Only a small percentage of people may develop esophageal cancer, but there is a direct link between persistent esophageal inflammation caused by stomach acid and cellular changes (Barrett's esophagus) that lead to cancer. The risk increases the more severe your heartburn is and the longer treatment is delayed.
Required Tests to Diagnose Heartburn
A doctor may examine the esophagus to check its condition after a heartburn injury. Among the most important tests are:
1. Upper Endoscopy
The doctor uses an endoscope to see the inside of the esophagus and examine the upper digestive system down to the stomach and part of the small intestine. They also look for signs of esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus.
2. Esophageal pH Test
This test involves placing a wireless capsule in the esophagus to detect pH (acid levels) over time. After a specific period, your healthcare provider retrieves the capsule and collects the data.
Treatment of Acidity and Heartburn
Occasional heartburn can be treated at home using over-the-counter medications and lifestyle modifications. If it is frequent, you may need prescription medications. Generally, available treatment options include:
1. Antacids
Antacids neutralize stomach acid so that reflux does not erode the esophagus when it occurs. They often contain ingredients to treat other symptoms, such as simethicone, which gets rid of gas. Antacids are effective for occasional heartburn but can cause side effects if overused.
2. Histamine Receptor Antagonists (H2 Blockers)
These medications reduce stomach acid by blocking the chemical (histamine) that tells your body to produce stomach acid. However, they may not always work in the long term; if your body adapts to them, they may lose their effectiveness.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
These are the most powerful medications for treating heartburn and GERD, and they also promote tissue healing. A doctor may prescribe them as a first-line treatment if the heartburn is relatively severe or if there are signs of esophageal tissue damage. They are 90% effective in reducing acid reflux.
Best Heartburn and Acidity Medications from the Pharmacy
Aljawaher Almotamayza Pharmacies provide a range of of effective stomach & colon medications for for treating acidity and heartburn, but you must consult a doctor to choose the appropriate medication for your condition:
1. Gaviscon Double Action Liquid
Gaviscon double action is a double-strength liquid to treat acidity and indigestion, characterized by its rapid onset of action and effectiveness lasting up to 4 hours.
2. Gaviscon Liquid Indigestion Relief (Peppermint Flavor)
Gaviscon Peppermint Susp is a 200 ml suspension for treating indigestion and acidity with a mint flavor and long-lasting effectiveness. It is recommended for use according to a doctor's instructions.
3. Gaviscon Extra Strength
Gaviscon Extra Strength 500 in peppermint flavor, a medication for acidity and heartburn that provides quick and immediate relief from heartburn and indigestion with a long-lasting effect.
4. Riapenta 40 mg Tablets
Riapenta 40 mg tablets contain the active ingredient "Pantoprazole," a proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid secretion and treats acidity and GERD.
5. Pantozol 40 mg
Pantozol 40 mg tablets for treating GERD and heartburn, also containing "Pantoprazole" to reduce stomach acid secretion.
6. Peptazol 30 mg
Peptazol 30 mg tablets for treating acidity and GERD containing the active ingredient "Lansoprazole," a proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid secretion.
7. Dexilant 60 mg
Dexilant 60 mg delayed-release capsules containing the active ingredient "Dexlansoprazole," a proton pump inhibitor. A portion of the medication is released within an hour of ingestion, and another amount resumes release after 4 to 5 hours.
Tips for Preventing Heartburn
The following tips are recommended to prevent heartburn and reduce the risk of GERD:
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Eat smaller meals throughout the day; with less to digest, your stomach will produce less acid.
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Do not sleep on a full stomach; you should wait three to five hours after eating before lying down.
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Sleep on your left side, as this may help position the valve between the esophagus and the stomach in an air pocket above the stomach contents. Lying on your back or right side leads to the valve being submerged in acids.
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Avoid foods that may increase your heartburn, such as spicy foods, fried dishes, and coffee.
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Quit smoking.
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Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and avoid tight clothing around the abdomen.
