The ascent of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus as well as being a very annoying disorder, can create serious damage. Choosing the most suitable remedy is essential to avoid consequences.
In gstroesophageal reflux disease the presence of acid in the esophagus is painful, leads to inflammation and causes the formation of real wounds.
If the problem is not addressed in time, it can also extend outside the digestive system, irritating the pharynx, vocal cords and respiratory system. But by choosing the correct medication the damage can be effectively limited.
When the time comes to act
In less severe situations, reflux occurs only on special occasions, for example after a heavy meal, if you smoke too much or if you lie down immediately after eating. In these cases, avoiding certain foods and quitting smoking may be enough to resolve the disorders.
If the symptoms have a recurrent frequency, however, it is necessary to run for cover through the use of specific drugs. To avoid the onset of complications such as reflux esophagitis, esophageal stenosis and Barrett’s esophagus, it is good to associate the use of specific drugs with lifestyle correction.
Medications useful for reflux symptoms
Medications used to treat reflux symptoms include H2 antagonists and proton pump inhibitors. The former block the production of acid in the stomach by inhibiting histamine receptors. The most used are cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine and nizatidine.
These drugs control heartburn, but are less effective than proton pump inhibitors. In addition, the intensity of their action is limited and does not sufficiently compensate for the gastric acidity that is established after meals.
For this reason, the most suitable and used remedies are proton pump inhibitors or PPIs (omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole and esomeprazole).
These molecules also inhibit acid secretion in the stomach, but their action, directed against the activity of the proton pump, is stronger and more prolonged than that of H2 antagonists and allows a coverage of 24 hours with only one administration per day.
For this reason they are particularly indicated in the most serious situations, even when there are already complications, such as esophagitis. To obtain an optimal result they should be taken preferably in the morning, on an empty stomach, before breakfast. They are safe drugs and well tolerated by the patient.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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