Best Over The Counter Medicine For Chronic Heartburn
Heartburn is a common problem that affects millions of Americans. It is a sensation of burning discomfort in the chest or throat that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Chronic heartburn is a more severe form of heartburn that occurs frequently, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, hiatal hernia, and smoking.
The good news is that there are many over-the-counter medicines available to help relieve chronic heartburn. In this article, we will discuss the best over-the-counter medicine for chronic heartburn.
Antacids
Antacids are a type of medicine that neutralizes stomach acid. They are available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid. Antacids work quickly to relieve heartburn symptoms, but their effects are short-lived.
Some popular antacids include Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox. These medicines are generally safe to use, but they can cause side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
H2 Blockers
H2 blockers are a type of medicine that reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach. They are available in tablet form and are taken before meals to prevent heartburn symptoms.
Some popular H2 blockers include Pepcid, Zantac, and Tagamet. These medicines are generally safe to use, but they can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and constipation.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a type of medicine that reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach. They are available in tablet form and are taken once a day, usually before breakfast.
Some popular PPIs include Nexium, Prilosec, and Prevacid. These medicines are generally safe to use, but they can cause side effects such as headache, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Alginate-based Medicines
Alginate-based medicines are a type of medicine that creates a barrier in the stomach to prevent acid reflux. They are available in tablet form and are taken after meals.
Some popular alginate-based medicines include Gaviscon and Rennie. These medicines are generally safe to use, but they can cause side effects such as constipation and diarrhea.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to over-the-counter medicines, lifestyle changes can also help relieve chronic heartburn. Some lifestyle changes that can help include:
- Eating smaller meals
- Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy or fatty foods
- Not lying down after eating
- Losing weight if you are overweight
- Stopping smoking
By making these lifestyle changes and taking the appropriate over-the-counter medicine, chronic heartburn can be effectively managed.
Conclusion
Chronic heartburn is a common problem that can be effectively managed with the appropriate over-the-counter medicine and lifestyle changes. Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and alginate-based medicines are all effective in relieving heartburn symptoms. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new medicine or making any significant lifestyle changes. By doing so, chronic heartburn can be managed and quality of life can be improved.