Acid Relief In A Pill: Gerd Medication
If an individual is experiencing a burning sensation underneath their sternum or breastbone they may be experiencing what is known as heartburn. Generally, the individual will find that their is caused by a number of factors. Some of those factors could include the eating of certain foods, certain lifestyle choices or being overweight.
In addition, this condition may be caused by a weakening of the sphincter muscle located between the esophagus and stomach. This weakening allows the flow of the acid from the stomach up into the esophagus. This in turn burns the sensitive lining of the esophagus and therefore gives the severe burning sensation
However, is simply a way for an individual to describe what they are experiencing. The actual term for this condition is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.
In addition, it is important to treat this condition. That is because if the esophagus is continually exposed to the stomach’s acid it may cause the ulceration of the esophagus which may lead to cancer.
Therefore, there are many GERD medications that are available to the individual. Some of those GERD medications can be purchased over the counter and some may need to be prescribed by a doctor.
GERD Medication Acquired Over The Counter
If an individual is experiencing GERD there are a number of options that the sufferer can take. One of those options is through the use of medicine.
One of the options available if choosing medication in an effort to reduce symptoms and help to heal any damage to the esophagus is through the use of over-the-counter medication. Some of these over-the-counter medications include the use of Tums, Rolaids, Gaviscon, etc.
If considering antacids it is important to know what the main ingredients in these products are. For example, some of the antacids contain an ingredient called calcium carbonate. An example of this type of product is Tums.
Other types of antacids can contain a combination of ingredients. Some of those ingredients are calcium, magnesium, aluminum with hydroxide, basic salts, etc. Examples of these types of products can include Mylanta, Rolaids, etc.
GERD Medication Prescriptions
In the event that the over-the-counter products prove to be ineffective the attending physician may wish to use prescription medication to treat GERD and try to reduce the adverse affects of this condition. One such medication is a proton pump inhibitor.
These types of GERD medications actually work to minimize or prevent acid in the stomach. This occurs as the medication actually “shuts off” the small pumps in the stomach which in turn decreases the amount of acid in the stomach.
Some of these types of GERD medications include Nexium, Prilosec, Prontonix and Prevacid. These medications are very effective and not only reduce the acid in the stomach, but help to reverse the damage caused by the acid reflux in the esophagus.
By Bob B Taylor
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