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Frequent Heartburn: Finding the Summertime Solution for You
Frequent Heartburn: Finding the Summertime Solution for You
For many of my patients, this summer offers the chance to finally reconnect with family and friends after a busy start to the year. We’re all eager to soak up the familiar rituals of the season: long-awaited vacations, cookouts and picnics in the park, and other fun with loved ones. It’s also a time when many of us enjoy some of the season’s unique foods and drinks, which aren’t always the healthiest (spicy barbeque, salsa, fries, funnel cakes, summer cocktails and… beer, anyone?). As much as we all love some summertime indulgences, our bodies don’t always love the potential consequences—such as heartburn.
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Frequent Heartburn: Finding the Summertime Solution for You
Frequent Heartburn: Finding the Summertime Solution for You
Frequent Heartburn: Finding the Summertime Solution for You
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For many of my patients, this summer offers the chance to finally reconnect with family and friends after a busy start to the year. We’re all eager to soak up the familiar rituals of the season: long-awaited vacations, cookouts and picnics in the park, and other fun with loved ones. It’s also a time when many of us enjoy some of the season’s unique foods and drinks, which aren’t always the healthiest (spicy barbeque, salsa, fries, funnel cakes, summer cocktails and… beer, anyone?). As much as we all love some summertime indulgences, our bodies don’t always love the potential consequences—such as heartburn.
Signs of Heartburn
More than 1 in 4 adults experience heartburn at least once a week.[1] If you’re in this camp, you know that heartburn can be a miserable experience: the burning sensation in your chest or throat starts just after finishing a meal and can last for hours afterwards. Sometimes heart issues can mimic heartburn, so it is important to seek medical care for chest discomfort that you suspect may be heart-related, or for heartburn symptoms that persist despite taking antacids.
1. Think about lifestyle changes you can make
Lifestyle considerations, like maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking and diet modification, are an important first step in helping to manage heartburn symptoms. Further treatment for heartburn symptoms can be confusing because there are so many options available—in the forms of both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx) medicines. No matter how your heartburn symptoms manifest, there are unique solutions to help you treat them.
2. Find the heartburn medicine that’s right for you
- If you’re struggling with heartburn occasionally, antacids (such as Alka-Seltzer®, Mylanta® or TUMS®) can be helpful in addition to lifestyle changes.
- If heartburn symptoms persist despite taking antacids, you may consider trying OTC H2 blockers such as famotidine (PEPCID®, Zantac 360°TM) or cimetidine (Tagamet®).
- If you are still suffering from heartburn two or more days a week, this is considered “frequent heartburn,” which may require a different treatment approach for relief.[2] Many of my patients experiencing frequent heartburn often seek relief in the OTC aisle of the drug store—specifically to look for OTC proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which helps to relieve heartburn symptoms by blocking special “pumps” that produce acid.
Important Update: Acetaminophen
There’s been a lot of talk recently about misleading claims that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy can cause autism. We’ve pulled together some FAQs and answers to help families.
Learn more and get the facts about acetaminophenWhat You Should Know about PPIs
PPIs come in both Rx and OTC form, and OTC PPIs are the only OTC medicine indicated to treat symptoms of frequent heartburn. You might recognize them by their brand names, such as Nexium®24HR, Prevacid®24HR, Prilosec OTC®, Zegrid OTC®, or store brands of generics such as omeprazole, lansoprazole or esomeprazole. PPIs work by decreasing the amount of acid in your stomach.
The instructions for OTC PPIs are different compared to those for Rx PPIs, and it’s an important distinction that some patients don’t always know. Rx PPIs are used to treat more serious cases like chronic heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and a number of other gastrointestinal conditions. They are also prescribed at higher doses than OTC forms and are used for longer periods of time—but should only be taken under medical supervision.
PPIs are safe and effective when used as directed, but it is very important to seek professional medical care if your symptoms require taking PPIs more frequently than the labeling instructs, to ensure that the proper diagnosis is made and treatment is taken for your condition. While recent studies have shown a number of adverse effects associated with PPIs, it is important to note that an international clinical trial was published in June 2019 confirming the safety of PPIs when taken as directed.[3]
A NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
[1] Michael Camilleri et al., “Prevalence and Socioeconomic Impact of Upper Gastrointestinal Disorders in the United States: Results of the US Upper Gastrointestinal Study.” Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology 3, no. 6 (June 2005): 543–552, https://doi.org/10.1016/S1542-3565(05)00153-9.
[2] “Acid Reflux: Overview,” American College of Gastroenterology, accessed April 16, 2019, https://gi.org/topics/acid-reflux/.
[3] Paul Moayyedi et al., “Safety of Proton Pump Inhibitors Based on a Large, Multi-year, Randomized Trial of Patients Receiving Rivaroxaban or Aspirin.” Gastroenterology (May 2019): https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2019.05.056.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
Given how common heartburn is and the many treatment options available, it’s no wonder patients can be confused. Heartburn is one of the most common reasons people visit their healthcare provider, as well as one of the most common conditions discussed with pharmacists. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to find the right treatment option for you, so that you—and your digestive system—can enjoy all that summer has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It strengthens your enamel, repairs early signs of damage, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugar.
Is fluoride toothpaste still the most effective option, or are fluoride-free formulas just as good?
Fluoride is still the gold standard for cavity protection. Fluoride-free options can clean your teeth, but they don’t offer the same enamel-strengthening power.
Is fluoride safe for daily use?
Yes. When used as directed, fluoride is safe and effective. It’s been trusted and recommended by major health organizations for over 70 years.
How does fluoride actually protect teeth?
It strengthens enamel, repairs early signs of decay, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugary foods.
Are there any risks to using fluoride long-term?
The main risk—especially for young kids—is swallowing too much, which can lead to mild fluorosis. Using the right amount prevents this. For parents, supervise brushing to ensure kids spit out the toothpaste and don't swallow it.
At what age should kids start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears!
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
Is fluoride still safe and recommended for kids with all the claims online?
Yes. A lot of online claims can be confusing, but decades of research show fluoride is safe and strongly recommended for cavity prevention when used properly.
How much fluoride should my child get from toothpaste?
Use age-appropriate amounts and brush twice a day. If your water isn’t fluoridated, ask your dentist about additional options.
How do I know which kids’ toothpaste claims are real and not just marketing?
Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and choose brands your dentist recommends.
Do fluoride-free or “natural” toothpastes protect kids from cavities?
They can help clean teeth, but they don’t provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpastes.
Are fluoride-free toothpastes just as effective for adults?
Not for cavity prevention. Fluoride-free toothpastes can help with cleaning and freshening breath, but they do not protect against cavities the way fluoride does. For adults, or anyone who is prone to cavities, fluoride toothpaste remains the most effective option for preventing tooth decay.
Do fluoride alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) make a difference?
Yes—nHAp can help with sensitivity and early enamel repair. But it hasn’t matched fluoride’s cavity-prevention strength in studies.
How do I compare fluoride vs. fluoride-free options if I have sensitivity or enamel wear?
Fluoride is best for strengthening enamel. nHAp may help with sensitivity. Some people benefit from using both in a balanced routine.
Are whitening toothpastes safe to use with fluoride or fluoride-free products?
Most are safe but can be abrasive. Choose gentle formulas and avoid using them every single day—especially for kids.
What should I look for when choosing an OTC toothpaste?
Pick products with proven active ingredients (like fluoride), check for the ADA Seal, and avoid unnecessary additives or sweeteners.
Does fluoride affect hormones or the brain?
No credible scientific evidence shows fluoride at levels used in toothpaste or fluoridated water disrupts hormones or causes neurodevelopmental harm.
What should I do if my community stops adding fluoride to the water?
Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses, and talk to a dentist about fluoride supplements for kids.
Do fluoride supplements have side effects?
They’re safe when used under dental guidance and typically recommended for children in areas without fluoridated water.
What’s the best way to make sure I’m getting enough fluoride?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated tap water if available, and ask your dentist for personalized advice if you’re cavity-prone.