Antacids are often used to relieve symptoms of reflux disease (GORD), heartburn (dyspepsia) and peptic ulcer. Antacids help to relieve pain and discomfort but do not help to heal these conditions or prevent them from happening again.
There are lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent symptoms from occurring. These include:
- avoiding foods that trigger your symptoms
- quitting smoking
- reducing alcohol and caffeine intake (tea and coffee)
- avoiding or reducing the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac.
Antacids are usually used only when needed and are not often prescribed long-term. If you find that you need to take antacids regularly, every day for more than 1 or 2 weeks, talk to your doctor.
Taking antacids may not be suitable if you have any of the following problems | |
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If you have any of the symptoms listed above you should contact your doctor urgently. |