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Heartburn. The good news. |
Potent treatment for heartburn is now available over-the-counter (OTC). This is good news for many sufferers who are getting inadequate relief from their current OTC medication.
Heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach escapes into the oesophagus (reflux). This causes a burning feeling rising from the stomach or lower chest towards the neck. Regurgitation of acid into the mouth can cause a sour or bitter taste.
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The bad news. Alcohol is a common reflux trigger
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Lifestyle changes such as avoidance of trigger foods (e.g. fatty or acidic foods), weight loss, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking and avoiding lying down for 2-3 hours after eating, may help to prevent episodes.
Some people may also need long term, daily medication for complete control of symptoms. For others, it may be sufficient just to treat flareups as they occur.
How to treat flareups
OTC medications can give quick relief for mild or occasional symptoms. Antacids neutralise the acid in the stomach and medications such as ranitidine and cimetidine reduce acid production.
PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) lower acid production more effectively. They give the greatest symptom relief but take longer to work than antacids. They are available on script for more severe cases.
Pantoprazole is the first PPI to be available in a lower dose without a prescription. It is suitable for people who have troublesome episodes of heartburn 2 or more days per week. Pantoprazole is taken once daily for 7-14 days. Sideeffects are uncommon and can include diarrhoea, headache and nausea.
When to see your GP
· If your symptoms do not respond within 14 days of treatment.
· If you have repeated or severe episodes, difficult or painful swallowing, vomiting or choking attacks at night.
· If symptoms are not typical, especially if you are over 55 years. Angina (heart pain), stomach ulcer and (rarely) stomach cancer can cause similar symptoms to reflux.
· If you have unexplained weight loss, vomit blood or pass black bowel motions you need prompt investigation.
Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Autumn 2009 Edition | Page 1
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