Quick Acid Reflux Relief

Acid reflux, known more colloquially as heartburn, is a condition wherein acid splashes back into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation. Typically, more of annoyance than cause for serious concern, treatment involves a number of potential medications and lifestyle changes. In addition to long-term medications, however, antacids are the only option that focus on the immediate symptoms as opposed to the underlying cause.

Antacids

• Quick relief for acid reflux is found primarily in the use of over-the-counter antacids. They work by quickly neutralizing the acid in your stomach, preventing it from splashing back into your esophagus and causing heartburn. Unlike other forms of treatment such as H2 blockers (Pepcid Complete), bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) and proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec OTC), this medicine is designed to work quickly and only provide short-term relief, as they attack the immediate problem and not the cause.

  The primary cause of acid reflux is a weakened lower esophageal sphincter that allows the acid to splash back. In addition to neutralizing acid, antacids also can increase the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, resulting in greater pressure and a diminished chance of reflux. Additionally, antacids can make the reflux less acidic, thus decreasing the amount of damage done to the esophagus.

Examples of Antacids

• Examples of antacids include Maalox, Alka-Seltzer, Rolaids, Mylanta and Tums. Their primary ingredients include calcium carbonate, magnesium and aluminum hydroxide as well as sodium bicarbonate. These ingredients all work toward the same purpose and as such may be used alone or combined with others. Some antacids contain simethicone, a medication used to relieved gas.

  The length of time it takes for the medication to begin neutralizing the acid is dependent on which ingredients are present in the medication. Those that contain magenesium hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate work the fastest, while those that contain calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide can take upward of 30 minutes to begin working.

Usage and Warnings

• Antacids are most effective when taken immediately after a meal or a few hours before bedtime. Avoid taking antacids if currently taking drugs for other disorders, such as gout or Parkinson's Disease, as the antacids can prevent their absorption and decrease their effectiveness.

  Before beginning any drug regimen, consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment and discuss potential side effects. Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, dizziness and constipation. They can become severe if antacids are used longer than a day or two. Should the acid reflux continue for more than a couple days, consult your doctor, as you may need to begin a regimen of a long-lasting, yet slower-acting heartburn medication such as Prilosec OTC.