What You Should Know About Heartburn and Zantac

Heartburn, also referred to as acid reflux, is an uncomfortable condition that can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common is that of a burning pain in the chest. This pain may begin after eating and become more intense when you bend over or lie down. There are many different causes of heartburn, as well as many different treatments. One popular treatment used successfully by many heartburn sufferers is Zantac. Keep reading to learn more about heartburn and Zantac.

Zantac is a drug known as a histamine receptor antagonist, which works by decreasing the level of stomach acid produced. Many times, it is used for sufferers of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Also, it can be used for the treatment and prevention of stomach ulcers. While Zantac is a widely prescribed medication for heartburn problems, it may not always be the best choice.

Sometimes, mild to moderate heartburn can be due to your diet. There are foods that can lead to heartburn or make the problem worse. Tomato products, citrus fruits, spicy foods, chocolate, coffee and alcohol are examples of foods that may aggravate acid reflux. Eating too close to bedtime, or eating large meals can also cause an occurrence of heartburn. Some people find that making simple dietary changes can provide substantial relief. Even smoking can aggravate heartburn, so if you're a smoker you should try your best to quit.

Over the counter antacids may also provide relief for acid reflux. Antacids work to neutralize stomach acid and lessen the discomfort and duration of symptoms. It's recommended that you don't use antacids within one hour of taking Zantac because the antacids can lessen the effectiveness of the drug. You should always ask your doctor before taking antacids even if you don't take Zantac, because they can interact with certain other medications as well.

If you have questions about heartburn and Zantac, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. It's important to discover why the problem is occurring before you can successfully treat it. Your doctor may recommend you modify your eating habits or try antacids before prescribing a prescription medication. However if you are diagnosed with GERD, it is likely that a medication like Zantac will be recommended.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved



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