How to Manage Acid Reflux in Singapore: Foods to Avoid and Alternative Options
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Medication for Treating Acid Reflux and Heartburn
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It is not uncommon for people in Singapore to experience acid reflux or heartburn. Acid reflux is a common condition that occurs when the stomach acids back up into the esophagus. This results in a burning sensation and discomfort.
Many people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications as an easy solution to treat the symptoms of acid reflux. But do these OTC medications really work?
How to treat Acid Reflux with Medication?
In general, there are 3 types of medication for the treatment of heartburn:
Acid reflux medicine can help people with acid reflux and heartburn to feel better. It is also known as the gastric reflux medicine or heartburn relief medication. Three types of medication are available for treating this condition:
- Antacids
- Histamine-2 (H2) Blockers
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Antacids For Acid Reflux / Heartburn
People commonly use antacid medications to treat acid reflux in Singapore. These medications help by reducing stomach acids, which can relieve heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms. You can find antacids in both liquid and tablet forms and easily purchase them at your local pharmacies.
When taking antacids, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Do not take more than two doses per day to avoid side effects like diarrhoea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. If you have side effects from antacids, stop taking them and see a doctor for advice.
These over-the-counter medicines can provide temporary relief from acid reflux. It blocks an action enzyme in the stomach wall. Antacids are not a long-term solution for acid reflux and it’s best if used in conjunction with a doctor’s treatment plan.
If you often have heartburn or acid reflux symptoms, see a doctor or specialist right away. They can evaluate your condition and give you the right treatments. If you don’t see any improvement after taking antacids for two weeks, make sure to seek medical help.
Histamine-2 (H2) Blockers In Treating Acid Reflux and Heartburn
Histamine-2 (H2) blockers are a type of medication commonly used to treat acid reflux and heartburn. H2 blockers stop histamine from telling the body to make too much stomach acid, which can cause irritation in the esophagus. By reducing this response, H2 blockers help relieve symptoms of acid reflux such as burning sensations and discomfort. H2 blockers are available in both prescription and non-prescription forms.
When taken as directed, H2 blockers can help prevent and reduce acid reflux symptoms. They are generally safe and well-tolerated but may cause side effects in some cases such as headaches, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea. Following the instructions provided by your doctor is important.
Additionally, it’s important to note that H2 blockers do not treat the underlying causes of acid reflux. For long-term relief, lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods and losing weight may be necessary. If you have moderate to severe heartburn or acid reflux, talk to your doctor about additional treatment options.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) In Treating Acid Reflux and Heartburn
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a type of medication used to treat heartburn and acid reflux. PPIs work by blocking the action of an enzyme in the wall of the stomach that causes it to produce acids. By reducing the amount of acid, PPIs help to reduce symptoms such as burning sensations, chest pain and regurgitation.
Although PPIs are generally safe, they can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea and constipation. Talk to your doctor if you have side effects or if your condition does not get better after taking the medication. Patients should use PPIs for short-term use and should not take them for more than 8 weeks without a doctor’s approval.
Proton pump inhibitors can help with acid reflux. They should be used correctly along with lifestyle changes and other treatments recommended by a doctor.
For those looking to treat acid reflux with medication, it is important to consult with a doctor first. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment for your specific case.
What Happens If These Medications Don't Work for My Acid Reflux
If antacids or prescription medication haven’t helped your acid reflux, it’s time to explore other treatment options. It is important to know that antacids are not a good long-term solution for acid reflux. Using them for a long time can actually make the condition worse.
There are several steps you can take if medications don't work your acid reflux:
#1
Change Your Diet
Making dietary changes can help reduce the symptoms associated with acid reflux. Stay away from foods that can trigger heartburn symptoms. These include spicy or acidic foods, fatty and fried foods, tomatoes and citrus fruits, caffeine, alcohol and chocolate. Eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding large meals before bedtime can also be beneficial.
#2
Lose Weight
If you are too heavy, it is important to lose weight because being obese can make acid reflux worse. Eat fewer calories and plan your meals around healthy food choices such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Exercise regularly to help burn off excess calories.
#3
Elevate Your Bed
Raise the head of your bed or place a wedge between the mattress and box spring so that your body stays in an upright position during sleep. This will help keep stomach acid from coming back up into your esophagus while you're sleeping.
#4
Avoid Smoking
Surgery may be needed to fix problems with the oesophageal sphincter. This can prevent food and stomach acids from moving back up into the oesophagus. This procedure is called fundoplication. Dr. Kan has done this surgery before and can help you decide if it's a good treatment choice for you.
#5
Exercise
You may ask "can exercise help reduce acid reflux" and the answer is yes. Exercise can help reduce symptoms by improving your digestion and reducing stress levels. However, avoid exercises that may trigger acid reflux such as high-intensity workouts or exercises that involve bending over. Dr Kan has extensive experience in treating GERD and can help you find the best course of action to take in order to get lasting relief from your condition.
#6
Surgery
Surgery may be needed to fix problems with the oesophageal sphincter. This can prevent food and stomach acids from moving back up into the oesophagus. This procedure is called fundoplication. Dr. Kan has done this surgery before and can help you decide if it's a good treatment choice for you.
Dr Kan has extensive experience in treating GERD and can help you find the best course of action to take in order to get lasting relief from your condition.
How to relieve heartburn?
While medications can provide temporary relief for acid reflux and heartburn, it is important to address the underlying causes of the condition.
It is always best to consult with a doctor before starting any treatment for acid reflux or heartburn. They will be able to provide personalised recommendations based on your specific case and help you find long-term relief from symptoms. So, don’t hesitate to reach out and discuss your concerns with our doctor when dealing with acid reflux or heartburn.
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