Heartburn or reflux is a condition in which acid from the stomach gets into the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus cannot handle large amounts of acid, and when the acid enters the esophagus it causes a burning feeling. There are a number of different treatments, including medication, lifestyle modification and alternative therapies, which can be used to treat heartburn and reflux.
Medication
There are three major types of medications used in the treatment of heartburn: antacids, H2-receptor antagonists and Proton pump inhibitors.
Antacids are generally over-the-counter drugs (like Rolaids) which provide immediate relief. When taken before or immediately after a meal, they limit the amount of acid the stomach produces. They are appropriate for treating occasional heartburn and the relief is not long lasting.
H2-receptor antagonists provide longer lasting relief (approximately 6 hours of acid blocking, as opposed to the two or three hours standard with antacids) but do not begin to work as quickly. Over-the-counter H2-receptor antagonists include Zantac 75, and Pepcid AC,while prescription H2-receptors (Zantac 150 and Pepcid AC Max) provide higher doses of the same H2-receptor blockers.
Finally Proton pump inhibitors are used to treat persistent and chronic heartburn, and alter acid production on a more permanent basis. While these medications provide longer lasting relief (up to 24 hours) they usually take several days to begin working.
Natural Remedies
Certain supplements and herbs are considered to be natural heartburn and reflux remedies. Aloe vera juice, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), rice bran oil (Gamma-oryzanol), choline, pantothenic acid and thiamin are all natural substances recommended to both prevent heartburn and treat symptoms associated with heartburn. Drinking tea infused with lavender, anise and peppermint can also provide quick relief from heartburn symptoms, as these herbs have been shown to neutralize stomach acid.
Lifestyle Changes
Heartburn can become a chronic problem, which requires consistent medication. One way to avoid this is to change your lifestyle. Avoid lying down after eating. Track the foods you eat and discover which foods cause heartburn in order to refrain from eating them. Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, mint, citrus fruits, onions, and full fat dairy products. Eat a diet high in fiber and unprocessed foods to help promote digestive health.
Tags: H2-receptor antagonists, heartburn reflux, lasting relief, longer lasting, longer lasting relief, Proton pump, Proton pump inhibitors