How to Cure Acidity

Stomach acidity is a condition that normally occurs after consuming a meal. The symptoms can include a burning pain in the upper abdomen, belching, a bloated feeling in the stomach, flatulence and nausea. It can be treated by a change in diet or by taking over the counter medications. If the condition is chronic, your doctor may administer prescription medications. Here are the steps to treat stomach acidity.

Things You'll Need

• Over the counter medication Prescription medications if necessary

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Instructions

• 1

  Change your diet. Try eating smaller meals more frequently so your stomach will need to secrete less amounts of acid to aid digestion at a given time. Complex carbohydrates such as bread and pasta also need less stomach acid to digest. Limit the amount of fats you consume and be careful to avoid overeating. Avoid alcohol, especially beer, as this can double the amount of stomach acid.

• 2

  Maintain an upright position for at least 45 minutes after eating as a way to aid digestion.

• 3

  Take an over the counter medication at the first sign of acid indigestion, as these can often provide fast relief for your symptoms. Common medications include Mylanta, Maalox and Pepcid AC.

• 4

  Treat your condition with prescription medication if the discomfort does not go away, or if it is chronic in nature. Prescription medications include acid blockers such as Tagamet and Zantac; proton pump inhibitors that shut down the acid "pumps" in the stomach such as Prilosec and Prevacid; acid suppressors like Carafate, and if your condition is caused by an infection, antibiotics such as Amoxil or Biaxin. The exact cause of your stomach acidity will determine which drug your doctor will prescribe, as well as any possible side effects.

• 5

  Consider going with a counselor or psychologist to undergo behavioral therapy if your acidity is the result of improper eating habits.