Path to improved well being
To seek out out which medication is best for you, discuss to your loved ones physician. They will inform you about the advantages and dangers. Antacids and acid reducers not often trigger unwanted effects. In the event that they do, the unwanted effects normally are minor and go away on their very own. These might embody complications, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
Speak to your physician earlier than taking antacids in case you have kidney illness. You must keep away from any antacid that comprises calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate until your physician recommends it.
Speak to your physician earlier than taking a proton pump inhibitor if:
- You might be aged or have immune system issues. PPIs can improve your threat for pneumonia.
- You’re a postmenopausal lady. PPIs cut back calcium absorption and improve your threat for osteoporosis.
- You could have been handled for a Clostridium difficile (C. diff.) an infection prior to now. PPIs might improve the danger that your an infection returns.
If you’re over the age of 55 and require long-term PPI remedy, your physician might refer you for an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). This process examines the liner of the esophagus, abdomen, and higher small gut. When you’ve got vital reflux, your physician additionally might check you for a micro organism known as H. pylori previous to attempting you on PPIs.
Issues to think about
Don’t use greater than 1 antacid or acid reducer at a time until your physician says it’s okay. Retailer all medicines up and away, out of attain and sight of younger kids. Preserve medicines in a cool, dry place. This helps stop them from changing into much less efficient earlier than they expire. Don’t retailer medicines in loos, which frequently are scorching and humid.
When to see the physician
Let your physician understand how the OTC medicines be just right for you. In case your signs don’t enhance or worsen, the physician might counsel a prescription medication. If potential, attempt to not take PPIs long-term. These can improve your threat of sure well being circumstances, akin to osteoporosis, kidney illness, and dementia.
Inform your physician in case you have any of the next signs. They could be indicators of a extra significant issue.
- Bloody or black stools
- Bloody vomit
- Heartburn that has not improved after 2 weeks of remedy with OTC medicines
- Hassle swallowing or ache once you swallow
- Unplanned weight reduction
When you’ve got chest ache, shortness of breath, dizziness, and ache in your arms, it’s possible you’ll be having a coronary heart assault. Name 911 or go to the emergency room straight away.
Inquiries to ask your physician
- What sort of OTC medication is greatest for me to alleviate heartburn and acid reflux disease?
- How a lot medication can I take and the way usually?
- What are the unwanted effects and dangers of those OTC medicines?
- Are there any well being circumstances that stop me from taking OTC medicines?
