Brands with calcium or aluminum may
cause constipation
. Rarely, brands with calcium may cause kidney stones or other problems. If you take large amounts of antacids that contain aluminum, you may be at risk for calcium loss, which can lead to weak bones (osteoporosis).
Can taking antacids be harmful?
Antacids like Tums and Rolaids contain calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide to help neutralize the acid in your stomach. They can provide fast, short-term relief and
do not have lasting harmful side effects if taken as directed
.
Why are antacids bad?
Many antacids — including Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums — contain
calcium
. If you take too much or take them for longer than directed, you could get an overdose of calcium. Too much calcium can cause: nausea.
What are side effects of antacids?
- diarrhoea or constipation.
- flatulence (wind)
- stomach cramps.
- feeling sick or vomiting.
Who should not take antacids?
- decreased kidney function.
- diarrhea.
- low amount of phosphate in the blood.
- hemorrhoids.
- a blockage of the intestines with stool.
- blockage of the stomach or intestine.
- constipation.
- decreased kidney function.
What foods neutralize stomach acid?
- Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help those with acid reflux by coating an irritated esophageal lining and thereby helping to combat discomfort. …
- Melons. Like bananas, melons also are a highly alkaline fruit. …
- Oatmeal. …
- Yogurt. …
- Green Vegetables.
What's the safest antacid to take?
The FDA Wednesday said that preliminary tests of alternatives including Pepcid (famotidine), Tagamet (cimetidine), Nexium (esomeprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole) and Prilosec (omeprazole) found no N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), the suspected cancer-causing agent found in OTC ranitidine drugs including the popular …
Are antacids bad for your liver?
A study emerging from the University of California, San Diego, has revealed a correlation between the use of common acid reflux medications and chronic liver disease.
What happens when you take too much antacid?
Serious side effects can occur with an overdose or overuse of antacids. Side effects include
constipation, diarrhea
, change in the color of bowel movements, and stomach cramps. Products containing calcium may cause kidney stones and are more likely to cause constipation.
How do you cure GERD permanently?
During a procedure known as
a Nissen fundoplication
, your surgeon wraps the upper part of your stomach around the lower esophagus. This enhances the anti-reflux barrier and can provide permanent relief from reflux.
Should you drink water with antacids?
Drink a full glass of water after taking either the regular or chewable tablets or capsules
. Some liquid forms of calcium carbonate must be shaken well before use. Do not take Tums as an antacid for more than two weeks without talking to your healthcare provider first.
How long should I take antacid?
While both types of medication can be safe for long-term use, it is crucial to talk with your physician before taking them for
more than two weeks
. You need to get to the root of the problem to ensure you don't have a serious health condition masking itself as indigestion.
What happens if antacids don't work?
If medicines don't seem to be working for you, your doctor may suggest
surgery or endoscopic procedures
. Your doctor can tell you whether one of these options is right for you: Fundoplication (Acid Reflux Surgery). In this surgery, the surgeon wraps the top part of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus.
Can drinking a lot of water help acid reflux?
Too much volume can make the stomach distended, leading to more pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. Drinking water during the
later stages of digestion can reduce acidity
and GERD symptoms.
What is the most effective antacid?
Calcium Carbonate [CaCO3]
– Calcium Carbonate (chalk) is the most potent usable antacid. It can completely neutralize stomach acid.
Are antacids used to cure acidity in stomach?
Antacids neutralize stomach acid
to cut down on heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, and stomach upset. Some antacids also contain simethicone, an ingredient that helps your body get rid of gas. Some antacids contain ingredients that can cause diarrhea, such as magnesium, or constipation, such as aluminum.
