Medication
What you put into your body changes the way it acts (or reacts). And while medication is taken to help with a particular physical or mental issue, sometimes it creates additional problems in the form of side effects.
Admittedly, heartburn (also known as acid reflux) as a side effect is a far cry from the pain and discomfort of some conditions these medications are used for. But if you already have issues with heartburn, you may want to look for alternative drugs that don't compound your problems, if possible.
The particular issue with many types of medications that cause acid reflux is their effect on the esophageal sphincter. For example, extremely strong painkillers make the whole body feel relaxed. Unfortunately, this includes the sphincter muscle—when it doesn’t stay firmly contracted, stomach acid can sneak back up the esophagus. Other medications that tend to cause a relaxed sphincter include sedatives, theophylline, Parkinson’s disease drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, some blood pressure medicines, certain heart disease medications, hormone replacement drugs, and even some nutritional supplements, like potassium.
In other cases, medication may cause heartburn by actually damaging the lining of the esophagus. Chemotherapy treatments for cancer and biphosphates used for osteoporosis are among this type of drug. Aside from using normal heartburn treatments, taking biphosphates with a full glass of water and staying upright for about an hour can help minimize discomfort.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatorie drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, are perhaps the most unexpected medication that causes heartburn. While generally seen as harmless, they, too, can damage the esophagus. Additionally, they may create more gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach ulcers and gastritis, both of which can make heartburn worse. While occasional usage of NSAIDs probably won't cause problems, regular use may eventually become a significant issue.
Did you know...
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
- Starting to feel claustrophobic? The smells of apples may help keep your claustrophobic feelings at bay according to a 1995 study by Dr. Alan Hirsch. Green apples, specifically, helped people change their perception of their space. Maybe they thought of expansive apple orchards? Cucumbers and barbecue made the feelings worse.
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- There are many factors that contribute to your body odor, but one of the strongest links is our diet. This may be some bad news for meat-lovers because many studies have shown that those who refrained from or ate less red meat were judged as being more pleasant smelling. The meat sweats are real, and they don’t smell great!
- Need a quick cool down? Try drinking some hot liquid. It's true! As counterintuitive as it may seem, the heat from hot liquids will raise your body temperature. This will heat you up and cause you to sweat. The increased perspiration will wind up helping you feel cooler as it evaporates. Try it out!