Heartburn is a common problem across the world. Millions of people experience a burning sensation in their chest after eating certain foods or overeating. To ease the discomfort, many people turn to heartburn relief pills.
These pills are widely available, and they work quickly to neutralize stomach acids that cause heartburn.
However, a recent study has suggested that heartburn relief pills may increase the odds of developing gastroenteritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This condition can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
It can last for a few days to a few weeks, and in some cases, it can be severe enough to require hospitalization.
What are Heartburn Relief Pills?
Heartburn relief pills, also known as antacids, are over-the-counter drugs that neutralize stomach acid. These medications are used to relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion.
They work by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach, which in turn reduces the likelihood of acid reflux.
Common antacids include:.
- Rolaids
- Tums
- Maalox
- Pepto-Bismol
- Zantac
- Prilosec
These drugs are generally considered safe, and they come in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and chewable tablets. They work quickly and can provide relief from heartburn within minutes.
What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is commonly known as the stomach flu or gastro. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, although it can also be caused by a parasite or a toxin.
The symptoms of gastroenteritis can include:.
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
The symptoms of gastroenteritis can be severe in some cases, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. It can lead to dehydration and even death if left untreated.
The Study
A recent study published in the journal “Nature Communications” has suggested that heartburn relief pills may increase the odds of developing gastroenteritis.
The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Melbourne in Australia.
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Heartburn Medication Linked to Higher Gastroenteritis Risk
In the study, the researchers analyzed the medical records of over 8 million people in Australia.
They found that people who regularly took heartburn relief pills had a higher risk of developing gastroenteritis than those who did not take the medication.
The researchers found that people who took heartburn relief pills had a 70% higher risk of developing gastroenteritis than those who did not take the medication. The risk was even higher for people who took the medication for longer periods.
The researchers believe that heartburn relief pills may increase the odds of developing gastroenteritis by altering the balance of bacteria in the gut.
The medication may cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, which can lead to inflammation of the digestive tract and gastroenteritis.
What Should You Do?
If you suffer from heartburn on a regular basis, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your condition.
If you do take heartburn relief pills, it is important to pay attention to your symptoms. If you develop symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach pain, you should contact your doctor immediately.
You may need to stop taking the medication or switch to a different type of medication.
You can also take steps to reduce your risk of gastroenteritis by practicing good hygiene. This includes washing your hands regularly, especially before eating or preparing food, and avoiding contact with people who are sick.
You should also avoid eating raw or undercooked food, which can harbor harmful bacteria.
The Bottom Line
Heartburn relief pills are a popular and effective way to treat heartburn and acid reflux. However, they may increase the odds of developing gastroenteritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
If you suffer from heartburn, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication. If you do take heartburn relief pills, be sure to pay attention to your symptoms and contact your doctor if you develop symptoms of gastroenteritis.
