HYPERACIDITY - Common Medical Advice,

General Information

Hyperacidity is the excessive production of gastric fluids (e.g., hydrochloric acid, pepsin) in the stomach causing stomach upset. The excessive secretion of acid overwhelms the defenses, decreases the protective forces of the mucosal a layer of the stomach, ultimately damaging the inner lining, leading to a condition known as gastritis. The condition is generally influenced by chronic alcohol consumption, spicy food, irregular eating habits, carbonated drinks, stress, excessive smoking, certain medications (e.g. NSAIDs), and may also be brought about by surgery, burns, or severe bacterial infections Hyperacidity may lead to severe gastric ulceration leading to complication like perforation. This condition requires medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms

• Symptoms include Steady pain of short duration in the upper abdomen.
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite persisting for 1-2 days
• Heartburn or sour belching
• Vomiting of blood

Advice to the Customers

• Avoid foods and drinks that regularly bring discomfort, eg onions, and fried, tomato-based, spicy and highly acidic foods, etc.
• Eat three meals at regular times every day, avoiding snacks as much as possible so as not to suppress the appetite during mealtime
• Avoid cigarettes and alcohol to prevent the production of excessive gastric juice.
• Relax and get enough sleep. Stress induces the production of gastric juice.
• Chew gum or suck on hard candy to increase saliva production thereby neutralizing the acid that enters the esophagus.

Prescription Advice

• Instruct the patient on the medication and how to use it properly, i.e. name of the medication, frequency of dosage, etc.
• In cases where the hyperacidity has not cleared up after two days or present exacerbation, instruct the patient to consult a physician.
• Inform the patient of the possibility of interactions of some antacids with other medications, and the side effects associated with some of these agents.
• Discuss advice to the customers thoroughly for more information on the prevention and management of hyperacidity.