Acid Reflux Treatment Options
When you have heartburn, there are many acid reflux treatments you can get over the
counter (without a doctor’s prescription). And while these may give you temporary
heartburn relief, they may not be the best option for you. If you’re taking antacids
more than twice a week, it could mean that the problem isn't just heartburn, but may
be a more serious condition—acid reflux disease. If you think you may have acid
reflux disease, talk to your doctor about the best acid reflux treatment option for you.
Three types of treatments include
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Antacids
Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid. They can provide fast relief
from occasional heartburn, but the relief is usually short-term.
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H2 blockers
H2 blockers reduce acid production in the stomach by blocking a signal that
leads to acid secretion. They can help heal possible damage to the esophagus
that may be caused by acid reflux disease.
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Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors—like NEXIUM—are an effective treatment for acid reflux disease. They work by turning off some
of the "acid pumps" in the stomach's acid-producing cells. Most PPIs are
available only with a doctor's prescription. PPIs can both relieve
heartburn and heal possible damage
to the esophagus that may be caused over time by acid reflux disease.
Ask your doctor which acid reflux treatment option is best for you.
Next: FAQ About Acid Reflux Disease