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A Look at the Best Acid Reflux Drug Treatments

By Richal Peyton

Anyone can get acid reflux. Cases can range from the mild to the very severe. However, it can usually be treated. Doctors will often recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods, having a special diet and doing stress-relieving exercises. But if symptoms persist or become too uncomfortable, you may be prescribed an acid reflux drug.

Acid reflux drugs can be beneficial in many ways, including the elimination of pain or discomfort and the reduction of the condition's severity. Let's take a look at the common drug treatments for acid reflux, how they work, and how they should be used.

Getting the Right Drug - When looking for an acid reflux drug, make sure that they are registered for acid reflux or GERD treatment. Of course, the best way to find what's suitable for you is to see a doctor and have a diagnosis. The main actions of acid reflux drugs are to reduce or eliminate symptoms and prevent the condition from causing further damage (i.e.: to the lining of the esophagus).

Common Acid Reflux Drugs

Antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor blockers and sucralfate are among the most common acid reflux drug. Antacids are probably some of the most common treatments for acid reflux. These act to decrease gastric acidity and increase pH. Proton pump inhibitors are also commonly used as one of the most effective treatments for acid reflux. They decrease gastric acid production and actually halt acid secretion at its source. On the other hand, H2 receptor blockers mainly help relieve symptoms. Finally, sucralfate may be prescribed to aid in the healing of esophageal damage and prevent further damage.

How Treatment For Acid Reflux Is Applied

The Right Diagnosis - Oftentimes your doctor will need to diagnose you first through a few or more tests before recommending certain drugs. Your doctor may ask you about any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing. In this case, he or she may prescribe you medication that mainly reduces the severity of those symptoms. If your esophagus is already severely damaged, then more drugs may be applied. Most of the time, medication will require prescription. A combination of drugs may also be prescribed.

While Taking Medication

When taking acid reflux drug, check if the symptoms are actually subsiding, as it's often not recommended to stay with one treatment for a long time. You should check if you're still experiencing reflux, heartburn, hoarseness, or coughing. Sometimes, acid reflux can cause earaches and bouts of sinusitis. If your medication isn't working, it's best to inform your doctor so that he or she can find an alternative treatment.

Not all prescriptions are going to work perfectly for you. It can sometimes be challenging to treat acid reflux because the condition varies from person to person. However, persistence is key, and acid reflux can be cured. If you are concerned over the effectiveness of an acid reflux drug, don't hesitate to speak with your doctor about alternative treatments and other symptoms you may have. - 26706

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