Heartburn No More PDF / Book Is Jeff Martin's eBook Free Download? | Page 51

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acid. If you suffer from inflammation in the esophagus, H 2 blockers are
useless, but they can be effective at temporarily alleviating the symptoms of
GERD. The difference between over-the-counter H 2 blockers and those
prescribed is the strength of the drug.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors are more potent than H 2 blockers, and their success
rate at alleviating the symptoms of GERD is far greater. PPIs work by blocking
the production of acid in your stomach while helping your esophagus to heal
in case of inflammation as they protect it for any contact with acidic reflux.
PPIs are usually used when H 2 blockers prove to be ineffective. They are best
taken before meals.
Prokinetics
Prokinetics, also called pro-motility drugs, are aimed at helping your stomach
expel content more rapidly, enhance the stomach muscle tone and strengthen
the LES. Pro-motility drugs are most effective when taken before meals and at
bedtime. However, prokinetics can cause some side effects and are not
helpful at treating complications of GERD or at relieving the symptoms of acid
reflux.
If your heartburn does not improve with lifestyle changes, OTCs or drugs, you
may need additional tests such as barium swallow radiograph, pH monitoring,
endoscopy and biopsy, and you may be advised by your doctor to undergo
the following procedures:
Surgery
Surgery should only be considered when no improvement has been made
using OTCs or through the treatment of drugs. This is crucial in cases where
the regurgitation is chronic, cannot be treated by drugs and results in lung
infection. Some reflux sufferers may go for surgery when a large volume of
Jeff Martin – Heartburn No More
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