Heartburn can be very distressing to those affected by this condition.  Millions of people around the world suffer from heartburn which is also known as acid indigestion.  Some people suffer an episode of heartburn only once, and these people usually take antacids as their heartburn medication.  Other people suffer two or more episodes in a week, and these people have a more serious problem.  Recently, new heartburn medications have arrived on the market that can make a substantial difference in the lives of these people.  Heartburn medication is usually needed by this large group of people as they age.  Few young people need to get any heartburn medication.

Older people end up needing heartburn medication because of a problem with a muscle that controls the flow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus.  This muscle often weakens as people get older.  The acid from the stomach moves backwards into the esophagus.  The stomach easily tolerates this acid because it is a vital part of the stomach, and the job of digestion that is carried out in the stomach.  The esophagus does not tolerate this acid.  When the acid moves from the stomach back into the esophagus, the pain can be unbearable.  This action often happens when people lay down at night to sleep.  This condition is not only painful, but it can add stress to the life of the person because they lose sleep.

Many People Praise Heartburn Medication

People who suffer from heartburn have welcomed the advances in medication that has brought relief from this painful condition.  The medications and relief for heartburn are the result of years of research by experts.  The people who only suffer occasionally can make use of antacids that can be purchased over the counter.  Many of these antacids are available at drugstores, grocery stores and convenience markets.  These heartburn medications are usually very effective for minor symptoms of acid indigestion.

Prilosec is a heartburn medication that has made a significant difference for people who suffer several episodes of heartburn in a week.  This medication was first provided only with a prescription, but now it is available over-the-counter.  This medication is a proton pump inhibitor.  Usually people take this medication for two weeks as the start of the treatment.  The medication will relieve the symptoms of heartburn for an extended period of time.  This medication works to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach so that it does not flow back into the esophagus.  People affected by heartburn should continue to work with their doctor for optimum results.

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