Acid regurgitation, burning behind the sternum: heartburn is a common ailment.
Many sufferers take the acid blocker pantoprazole - but there are good alternatives.
A small occlusion between the stomach and the esophagus usually ensures that stomach acid stays in the stomach.
But sometimes the closing mechanism fails: the acid gets into the esophagus.
This leads to the typical heartburn symptom: burning pain behind the breastbone.
Many heartburn patients regularly use the over-the-counter acid blocker pantoprazole.
But there is one important rule you should be aware of.
Pantoprazole is a proven heartburn remedy because it reduces the production of stomach acid.
The active ingredients in the drug inhibit the so-called proton pumps in the stomach lining, which are responsible for the secretion of stomach acid into the stomach.
Since heartburn occurs when stomach acid rises up the esophagus, this effect alleviates the discomfort.
But doctors warn: If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should consult a doctor.
Because pantoprazole can - although it is over the counter - develop a number of side effects if the preparation is taken for too long.
Long-term use can result in increased liver values, intestinal infections, magnesium and vitamin B12 deficiencies * and even broken bones.
The latter are possible because gastric acid dissolves calcium from food, which our body needs to build bones - if gastric acid production is inhibited by pantoprazole, the body also has less calcium available.
Also read:
Apple cider vinegar: This is how the home remedy should help against bad breath and heartburn.
Pantoprazole for heartburn - you should know these alternatives
In general: Pantoprazole must not be taken for longer than eight weeks without medical advice.
Anyone who suffers from heartburn frequently and severely should have this clarified by a doctor.
Only this can rule out serious diseases that may be behind the acid regurgitation.
Is heartburn your constant companion?
The cookbook "Heartburn and reflux: improvement through the right diet" (promotional content) contains many delicious and stomach-friendly recipes and at the same time provides background information on the causes and effective treatment options for heartburn.
If serious causes have been ruled out, a change in lifestyle can often help: Stress, fatty and spicy food lead to more stomach acid being produced.
And stimulants such as cigarettes, alcohol and coffee also trigger heartburn, as they irritate the stomach and weaken the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus.
In addition to not using these products, many of those affected swear by chamomile, lemon balm or yarrow tea
, which soothe the stomach.
Baking soda has also proven itself to occasionally neutralize stomach acid, as reported by the spectrum portal.
To do this, dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a large glass of water and drink it.
Frequently stomach problems?
Poll on the subject
According to the Rathausapotheke portal, the following
home remedies for heartburn
can also be
tried:
Chewing gum - increases the flow of saliva, which flushes acid out of the esophagus
Drink low-fat milk or water - dilute and neutralize the acid
Drink potato juice - the starch it contains binds stomach acid
(jg)
*
Merkur.de is part of the nationwide Ippen-Digital editorial network
.
Read more
: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: How to Say War on Stomach and Intestinal Problems.
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