What happens to your body when you take Tums every day. How does regular antacid use affect digestive health. Can daily Tums consumption lead to unexpected side effects. Is it safe to rely on calcium carbonate antacids for frequent heartburn relief.

The Mechanism Behind Tums: How Calcium Carbonate Neutralizes Stomach Acid

Tums, a widely popular antacid medication, has become a household name for those seeking quick relief from heartburn and indigestion. But how exactly does this over-the-counter remedy work its magic? The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, a compound that effectively neutralizes excess stomach acid.

When calcium carbonate comes into contact with stomach acid, it undergoes a chemical reaction. This process results in the formation of calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide. By neutralizing the acid, Tums helps alleviate the burning sensation associated with heartburn and provides relief from other gastrointestinal discomforts.

The Speed of Relief: Why Tums Acts Quickly

One of the reasons Tums has gained such popularity is its rapid onset of action. Unlike some other antacids that may take longer to work, Tums begins neutralizing stomach acid almost immediately upon ingestion. This quick relief can be particularly appealing to those experiencing sudden or intense heartburn symptoms.

Potential Digestive Complications: Constipation and Tums Use

While Tums can be effective in providing short-term relief from heartburn and indigestion, daily use may lead to unexpected digestive complications. One of the most common side effects associated with regular Tums consumption is constipation.

The calcium in Tums can interfere with normal bowel function, potentially leading to difficulty in passing stools. This effect is not unique to Tums; other calcium-based antacids like Caltrate and Rolaids may also contribute to constipation when used frequently.

Recognizing Constipation Symptoms

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times a week)
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Difficulty or straining during bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation after using the bathroom

If you notice these symptoms while taking Tums daily, it may be time to reassess your antacid use and consult with a healthcare professional.

The Kidney Stone Connection: How Excessive Calcium Intake Affects Renal Health

One of the more serious potential consequences of daily Tums use is an increased risk of kidney stones. Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys when there’s an excess of certain substances in the urine, including calcium.

The calcium carbonate in Tums can contribute to elevated calcium levels in the body. When calcium levels become too high, it can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate stones in the kidneys. These stones can cause severe pain and discomfort, especially when passing through the urinary tract.

Factors That Increase Kidney Stone Risk

1. Excessive calcium intake from supplements or antacids
2. Dehydration
3. High-sodium diet
4. Certain medical conditions (e.g., gout, inflammatory bowel disease)
5. Family history of kidney stones

To minimize the risk of kidney stones while using Tums, it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. If you have a history of kidney stones or are at higher risk, consult with your doctor about alternative heartburn remedies.

Muscle Health and Electrolyte Balance: The Hidden Effects of Daily Tums Use

Regular consumption of Tums can have surprising effects on muscle function and overall electrolyte balance in the body. The calcium in Tums, when consumed in excess, can disrupt the delicate balance of minerals in your bloodstream.

This electrolyte imbalance may manifest in various muscular symptoms, including twitching, weakness, tenderness, and even pain. The severity of these symptoms often correlates with the amount and duration of antacid use.

Understanding Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolytes are minerals in our blood and other bodily fluids that carry an electric charge. They play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle contractions and nerve signaling. When the balance of these electrolytes is disrupted, it can lead to a range of symptoms affecting multiple body systems.

In the case of excessive Tums use, the influx of calcium can potentially interfere with the balance of other important electrolytes like magnesium and potassium. This imbalance can result in the muscle-related symptoms mentioned earlier.

Alternatives to Daily Tums Use: Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

While Tums can provide quick relief for occasional heartburn, relying on them daily may not be the best long-term solution. There are several natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux and reduce the need for frequent antacid use.

Dietary Modifications for Heartburn Relief

• Avoid trigger foods (e.g., spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
• Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
• Avoid lying down immediately after meals

Natural Remedies to Consider

1. Ginger tea or supplements
2. Aloe vera juice
3. Apple cider vinegar (diluted in water)
4. Baking soda mixed with water (use sparingly)
5. Chamomile tea

Incorporating these dietary changes and natural remedies may help reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes, potentially decreasing your reliance on Tums.

When to Seek Medical Advice: Recognizing the Signs of Chronic Acid Reflux

While occasional use of Tums is generally safe for most people, relying on them daily may indicate an underlying digestive issue that requires medical attention. Chronic acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.

Warning Signs of GERD

• Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent cough or wheezing
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Sensation of a lump in the throat

If you experience these symptoms regularly or find yourself reaching for Tums daily, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, prescription medications, or in some cases, surgical interventions.

The Importance of Proper Dosage: Guidelines for Safe Tums Consumption

While Tums are available over-the-counter, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and according to recommended guidelines. Overuse of any medication, including antacids, can lead to unwanted side effects and potential health complications.

Recommended Dosage for Adults

• For symptom relief: 2-4 tablets as needed, up to 4 times daily
• Maximum daily dose: 16 tablets (regular strength) or 10 tablets (extra strength)
• Do not exceed the maximum daily dose unless directed by a healthcare provider

It’s important to note that these guidelines are for general use and may not apply to everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, pregnant women, and those taking other medications should consult with their healthcare provider before using Tums regularly.

Signs of Tums Overuse

Recognizing the signs of excessive Tums consumption can help prevent potential health issues. Some indicators that you may be overusing Tums include:

• Persistent constipation or changes in bowel habits
• Muscle weakness or twitching
• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Headaches or confusion
• Nausea or loss of appetite

If you experience any of these symptoms while using Tums, it’s advisable to reduce your intake and consult with a healthcare professional.

Long-Term Considerations: Potential Nutrient Deficiencies and Interactions

While Tums can provide quick relief from heartburn and indigestion, long-term daily use may have unintended consequences on your overall nutrient balance. The calcium carbonate in Tums can potentially interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and medications.

Nutrient Interactions

Regular use of calcium-based antacids like Tums may affect the absorption of:

• Iron
• Zinc
• Magnesium
• Vitamin B12

These interactions can potentially lead to deficiencies over time, especially in individuals who may already have compromised nutrient absorption or dietary restrictions.

Medication Interactions

Tums can also interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness. Some medications that may be affected by regular Tums use include:

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones)
• Thyroid hormone replacement drugs
• Some blood pressure medications
• Certain osteoporosis treatments

To minimize the risk of interactions, it’s generally recommended to take Tums at least two hours before or after other medications. However, always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice regarding potential drug interactions.

Monitoring Nutrient Levels

If you find yourself using Tums daily for an extended period, it may be worthwhile to have your nutrient levels checked periodically. Your healthcare provider can order blood tests to assess your calcium levels and screen for potential deficiencies in other key nutrients.

By staying vigilant about potential nutrient imbalances and medication interactions, you can make more informed decisions about your antacid use and overall health management.

When You Take Tums Every Day, This Is What Happens

Bloomberg/Getty Images

By Jay Wilson/July 12, 2022 10:56 am EST

We all eat something that doesn’t agree with us every now and again. And when that happens, Tums can come to the rescue. A popular antacid, Tums is an effective and easily obtainable medication for symptoms of heartburn or an unsettled belly, according to WebMD. Working by neutralizing excess stomach acid, this oral medication has become a go-to for many Americans who experience gastrointestinal issues, be that regularly or on a one-off basis. (And it helps that they don’t taste too bad, too.)

But as Tums is a medication that works quickly and successfully in most cases, it’s all too easy to start reaching for your pill bottle whenever you’re feeling the first sign of stomach upset. But is that the right thing to do? And what’s the impact on your body when you’re taking Tums regularly? Join us as we take a look at all things Tums, and what happens if you decide to take them every day.

If you take Tums every day, you might experience constipation

Photoroyalty/Shutterstock

While Tums may work wonders on your stomach, taking them every day might have a less-than-ideal effect on your bowel movements. Tums and other antacids contain active ingredients that work to neutralize stomach acid, and Tums use calcium to help reduce stomach upsets, says Harvard Health Publishing. Unfortunately, this may end up causing constipation, which in turn means that you may end up experiencing an entirely different kind of belly pain.

Remember that Tums aren’t the only antacids that contain calcium: Caltrate and Rolaids are also calcium-based medications that may result in difficulty passing stools. Aluminum-based antacids, or combined aluminum and calcium-based antacids like Gaviscon, can also see you experiencing issues on the toilet with constipation, whereas magnesium-based antacids like Mylanta and Maalox may promote, conversely, diarrhea. We know, it’s a minefield out there! The best thing to do, however, is to keep track of your bowel’s reaction to taking Tums. If you’re taking it daily and you notice a significant change in your movements, pause and consult a doctor.

Taking Tums every day might increase your chance of kidney stones

Peakstock/Shutterstock

If you ever have kidney stones, you’ll likely know pretty fast. While some kidney stones can pass undetected, these hard deposits, formed by collections of waste material passing through your kidneys, can often be incredibly painful, particularly when passed through urinating (per the National Kidney Foundation). And if you’re in the habit of taking Tums every day, you may increase your chances of developing kidney stones, according to WebMD. Tums can boost your calcium levels, contributing to the build-up of kidney stones in your organs (and leaving you with a painful trip to the toilet).

Luckily, most kidney stones will pass without the need for significant treatment or leaving permanent damage to the body, says the Mayo Clinic – so if you have them, there’s usually no need for concern. Despite this, it’s important to keep an eye on your medication intake as well as your diet to reduce the likelihood of developing them. In addition to minimizing the intake of calcium-containing medications like Tums, it’s also a good idea to cut back on foods containing oxalates, like spinach, almonds, soy products, and potatoes (per WebMD). If your kidney stones are accompanied by significant pain or other symptoms like blood in your urine or difficulty when going to the toilet, consult a trained medical professional.

Having Tums daily can impact your muscles

Bloomberg/Getty Images

The medication that we take can affect far more than just the body part or ailment that it’s targeting. And in the case of Tums, they may have a knock-on effect on other areas, especially if you’re taking them every day. “Muscle twitching, generalized weakness, and even muscle tenderness and pain are the most common complaints” when taking Tums or other antacids with too much frequency, explains Lenox Hill Hospital attending emergency physician and Northwell Health assistant professor of emergency medicine Robert Glatter to Prevention.

The reason for this, Glatter explains, is because the active ingredients in these antacids, like calcium in the case of Tums, alter the levels in your blood. This can then introduce an electrolyte imbalance into your system, and your muscles react accordingly. As Glatter says, “the severity of the symptoms is influenced by the amount of antacids and duration of use.” In simpler terms, the more Tums you take, the more likely you are to experience effects on your muscles.

When you use Tums every day, you might just be masking your symptoms

Jeffy11390/Shutterstock

One of the main selling points of Tums is, quite simple, how effective they are: If you have heartburn, they work fast, and they get the job done. But is this really the best thing for you?

A large problem with using Tums every day is that while they may reduce the effects of gastroesophageal symptoms like heartburn, indigestion acid reflux, or GERD, this is symptomatic treatment and doesn’t necessarily address the causes of these effects, writes NYU School of Medicine assistant professor of medicine Roshini Rajapaksa for Health. And what’s causing these symptoms may need to be addressed far more urgently to stop your heartburn in its tracks, instead of masking it with antacid medication. Health conditions like gallstones or peptic ulcers may be contributing to your unsettled stomach or indigestion, and by taking Tums, you’re not treating them directly. 

Rajapaksa also points out that by failing to address the underlying causes of heartburn, you may end up with a larger problem on your hands later on, due to the repeated effects of excess stomach acid on your system.

Taking Tums daily will help reduce symptoms of heartburn

Bloomberg/Getty Images

Well, this may be comforting to know, we guess. But while we’re loathe to state the totally obvious, it’s true: Taking Tums every day is an effective way to bring down symptoms of heartburn. We can imagine the marketing team over at Tums HQ will be pleased to hear us say that!

So how exactly do they do that? It all lies in the stomach acid, folks. When our stomach acid can work its way through the protective lining in our stomachs or move up into our esophagus, it can cause ulcers or heartburn, respectively, says Patient. What antacids like Tums do is introduce an alkali ingredient (like calcium or other minerals) to our stomach acid and, in doing so, neutralize it. In turn, this reduces the severity of any symptoms caused by the acid, like that annoying burning feeling in your chest. Pretty cool, right? 

One thing to note, though, is that as the antacid effects wear off, your symptoms may return. Medications like Tums generally offer temporary relief, and recurrent instances of heartburn or gastric upset should be examined by a doctor.

Taking Tums every day might interact with other meds you’re taking

Raland/Shutterstock

While Tums and other antacid medications are widely available over the counter, that doesn’t mean you should take them without any consideration of other factors.  

If you’re taking Tums daily, it’s important to be aware of any interactions with drugs you might already be taking. This can often be down to the calcium levels in Tums, which may inhibit or change the effects of other medications, WebMD states. Certain antibiotics, for example, may be rendered less effective by the calcium carbonate from Tums, reducing their impact. One example is doxycycline, a common antibiotic used to treat conditions as wide-ranging as acne and malaria (per WebMD).

Other medications like estramustine (which is used to treat prostate cancer) may also be impacted by the persistent presence of calcium carbonate provided via Tums. Before taking Tums, it’s vital to check the labels of any medications you might already be taking. On the flip side, if you’re starting a new treatment of medicine, make sure you ask your pharmacist or doctor about potential interactions.

If you take Tums daily, you might have a change in your breathing

Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock

When we take Tums, we expect our aching bellies to be addressed, and little else. But one pretty dramatic side effect of taking Tums every day could occur to your breathing, thanks to the introduction of alkaline elements to your system through the antacid’s calcium carbonate. “As the pH in the bloodstream rises, the body compensates for the more alkaline environment, thus reducing the respiratory or breathing rate,” explains assistant professor of emergency medicine Robert Glatter to Prevention.

In addition to being fairly unsettling to have your breathing slow down noticeably, this may also cause knock-on health effects. “When breathing slows excessively, it could lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide, leading to fatigue or sleepiness,” Glatter explains. Slower breathing may not only occur with calcium-based antacids, too. Glatter states that antacids containing sodium carbonate can also instigate a breathing change. Needless to say, if your Tums intake is provoking a slowing down in your respiratory frequency, it may be wise to reduce your dosage.

Having Tums every day might affect your teeth

Puhhha/Shutterstock

Like other antacids, Tums are taken orally, by chomping down on the chalky tablets and waiting for that sweet, sweet heartburn relief. But the oral channel by which this medication is taken means that it’s passing other body parts on its way to your stomach, and it may impact them along the way. One such body part is your teeth. 

A big reason why Tums are so easy to take (and tasty) is that they contain a significant amount of sugar. After chewing them down, leftover sugary residue can end up stuck in the nooks and crannies of your teeth and gums, explains dentist Dr. Ian Bell. This may result in increased development of cavities, made even worse by the fact that regular antacid use can dry out your mouth, reducing the ability of your saliva to wash the sugary deposits away.

There’s also the bounce-back effect of your stomach acid to consider. As your body adapts to you taking Tums, it may end up producing additional stomach acid to counteract the effects of the antacid. This increased acidity may end up impacting your teeth, weakening them over time, particularly if your symptoms include heartburn and acid reflux. If you’re concerned about the effects your Tums intake could be having on your dental health, make sure you discuss the matter with your dentist.

If you have GERD, taking Tums daily might help your blood pressure

Dragana Gordic/Shutterstock

It can be difficult to discern the difference between gastroesophageal conditions. After all, heartburn’s heartburn, right? Well, not quite, as anyone who experiences gastroesophageal reflux disease (or GERD) will tell you. Characterized by the repeated movement of stomach acid into your esophagus, GERD can irritate and cause damage to the lining of this passage over time, and may even have knock-on effects and other symptoms, explain the Mayo Clinic.

But interestingly, if you’re taking Tums to counteract symptoms of GERD, you may be benefitting from an unintentional effect on your blood pressure. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology examined the link between GERD and blood pressure, and established that there’s a clear link between experiencing the condition and having higher blood pressure overall. However, the researchers also found that taking antacids may help to keep blood pressure at a normal level. It’s worth pointing out that GERD is often treated using prescribed proton pump inhibitor (or PPI) medication, which works differently from Tums, by reducing the overall amount of stomach acid produced by the body, as opposed to neutralizing the acid already present (per MedlinePlus). Proton pump inhibitors should only be taken on the advice of a healthcare professional.

Taking Tums every day might cause hypercalcemia

Fida Olga/Shutterstock

We’re taught, pretty much since day one, that the more calcium we get, the better. After all, it helps us build healthy bones and teeth, so if we’re taking Tums (which are calcium-based), then surely that’s just more good old-fashioned calcium for our bodies, right? Well … not quite. And in fact, taking Tums daily may result in us having way too much calcium — a condition known as hypercalcemia, which has a range of unpleasant effects (per the Cleveland Clinic).  

Hypercalcemia is a relatively commonplace occurrence, and can be caused by a range of medical conditions, as well as simply being hydrated. Although the average blood test can usually find hypercalcemia and assist in initiating treatment, it may lead to a range of health consequences if left unchecked. Interestingly, this includes increased incidences of broken bones and lower bone strength overall. 

Hypercalcemia may not reveal itself through symptoms, so it’s possible to have it and not know. However, you may experience nausea, vomiting, a higher frequency of urination, aching muscles, or tiredness as a result. The best way to tell for sure, though, is with a blood test.

Taking Tums daily can increase your risk of infection

Prostock Studio/Shutterstock

Taking Tums may be an effective way to cut back on heartburn, but it could also impact your health more generally. And the alterations that occur in the stomach when you take Tums with regularity might end up having an impact on your susceptibility to other illnesses.  

“While gastric acid helps to digest food, it also protects the body by destroying bacteria that are contained within food and beverages,” explains assistant professor of emergency medicine Robert Glatter to Prevention. But when you’re constantly neutralizing your stomach acid, it means that more bacteria can survive. Thus, your natural immunity may be compromised, leaving these unpleasant bugs to take hold.

A lot of the bugs that may end up more able to infect you are bacteria that affect your stomach, causing diarrhea and gastroenteritis, Glatter says. Ironically, by trying to cure one stomach ailment, you could be unintentionally causing another. Glatter states that using Tums too often could also increase your risk of contracting respiratory infections, like colds or the flu.

Having Tums every day could impact your heart health

Insta_photos/Shutterstock

Tums are a largely safe product to use in moderation, and can provide much-needed relief from gastric issues. But when you start to take it in larger quantities, things can go awry for other parts of your body. 

Taking Tums or other calcium-containing antacids regularly can lead to acute hypercalcemia, according to research published in SAGE Open Medical Case Reports. And when hypercalcemia becomes severe, it can start to impact your organs, adding not only strain to your kidneys and changing your brain function, but also potentially causing your heart to function irregularly, with palpitations and arrhythmia manifesting as symptoms.

In fact, the impact of excess calcium on heart health is very real and very important to know. As research published in the BMJ shows, a heavy intake of calcium (examined here through the impact of calcium supplements) appears to result in an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, as well as a higher chance of myocardial infarction or stroke. It’s important to regularly take stock of your calcium intake across the board, not just from your diet — medications like Tums and supplements can sneakily increase your levels by a fair amount.

How often should you take Tums?

Bloomberg/Getty Images

Given that they’re so easy to find and so easy to take, it’s tempting to pop Tums like candy (which isn’t helped by the fact that they’re also, quite frankly, really tasty). But as it’s all too convenient to take a Tums whenever you’re feeling an upset stomach, we can lose track of how often we should actually be consuming them. 

Luckily, Tums had the answer for us: Depending on the product you opt for, you should be taking between one and four Tums tablets upon the occurrence of your symptoms. Bear in mind the strength of the tablets that you’re taking when you’re planning your dose. For Tums Ultra Strength tablets, for example, you should take no more than three at a time, and for Chewy Bites with Gas Relief, 1-2 tablets are the recommended dosage. It’s also advised not to take more than both your individual or daily dose of Tums, per your specific medicine’s instructions.

But is that okay to take Tums indefinitely? Well … not really. As the Tums website indicates, you shouldn’t be taking the antacid for more than two weeks regularly if your symptoms are persisting, unless a doctor is telling you to do so. So, if you’re self-prescribing Tums every day (or have been for some time), it’s essential to talk to a healthcare professional to determine how safe this is — and perhaps more importantly, what the root cause of your digestive issues might be.

Types, Precautions, Side Effects & More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Antacids are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help neutralize stomach acid. Take antacids as directed to reduce the risk of diarrhea or constipation. They may also increase the chance of developing food sensitivities. In some cases, they can cause an allergic reaction.

Antacids work differently from other acid reducers, such as h3 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Those drugs work by reducing or preventing the secretion of stomach acid.

Antacids can be used to treat symptoms of excess stomach acid, such as:

• acid reflux, which can include regurgitation, bitter taste, persistent dry cough, pain when lying down, and trouble swallowing
• heartburn, which is a burning sensation in your chest or throat caused by acid reflux
• indigestion, which is pain in your upper gut that can feel like gas or bloating

Antacids usually come in the following drug forms:

• liquid
• chewable gummy or tablet
• tablet that you dissolve in water to drink

Popular antacid brands include:

• Alka-Seltzer
• Maalox
• Mylanta
• Rolaids
• Tums

Antacids are typically safe for most people. However, people with certain medical conditions should talk with their doctors before taking certain antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate.

For example, people with heart failure may have sodium restrictions to help decrease fluid buildup. However, antacids often contain a lot of sodium. These people should ask their doctor before using antacids.

People with kidney failure may develop a buildup of aluminum after using antacids. This can lead to aluminum toxicity. People with kidney failure also tend to have problems with electrolyte balance. All antacids contain electrolytes, which could make electrolyte balance problems worse.

Talk to your child’s doctor before giving your child antacids. Children don’t typically develop symptoms of excess stomach acid, so their symptoms could be related to another condition.

Side effects from antacids are rare. However, they can occur, even when you use them according to the directions.

Antacids can either cause constipation or have a laxative effect. Some people have had allergic reactions. Antacids might also increase the risk of developing sensitivities to certain foods.

Side effects from misuse

Many of the side effects of antacids come from not taking them as directed.

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
• vomiting
• mental status changes
• kidney stones

Excess calcium can also lead to alkalosis. In this condition, your body doesn’t make enough acid to function properly.

If you feel like you need to use a lot of an antacid for relief, that might be a sign of another condition. If you’ve taken an antacid according to the directions and haven’t gotten relief, talk to your doctor.

Antacids can interfere with the function of other drugs. If you take other medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using antacids.

Some antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer, contain aspirin. The Food and Drug Administration issued a safety alert about this type of antacid in June 2016. This alert was issued because of reports of serious bleeding related to aspirin-containing antacids.

If you take another medication that increases your risk of bleeding, such as an anticoagulant or antiplatelet drug, you shouldn’t take these antacids.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking aspirin-containing antacids if you:

• have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders
• are older than 60 years old
• drink three or more alcoholic drinks per day

Antacids can often relieve symptoms of excess stomach acid. However, sometimes these symptoms mean you have a more serious condition.

It’s important that you know how to recognize these conditions and how to respond to them. An upset stomach could actually be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a peptic ulcer.

Antacids can only soothe, not cure, some of the symptoms of these conditions. If you have severe pain that doesn’t get better after using the recommended dosage of antacids for two weeks, call your doctor.

Some heart attack symptoms can also mimic stomach pains. You may be having a heart attack if you have severe chest pain that lasts longer than two minutes with any of the following symptoms:

• lightheadedness
• shortness of breath
• pain that radiates to your arms, shoulders, or jaw
• neck or back pain
• vomiting or nausea

If you think you may be experiencing a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency services.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here.

If you have acid reflux or other symptoms caused by stomach acidity, get to know your OTC medications.

Antacids neutralize the acid that your stomach makes. This can make you more comfortable. On the other hand, h3 receptor blockers and PPIs can block your stomach from making too much acid. This can allow the damage in your stomach and esophagus to heal.

Ask your doctor which is better for you.

Reasons why the stomach hurts? | A-Media Family Clinic

Abdominal pain: what to look out for.

Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical attention. Unpleasant and painful sensations can overtake each of us. And if in some cases the pain recedes after a short time and does not return, then sometimes the attacks of pain become unbearable and require an urgent appeal to a gastroenterologist. Let’s look at the causes of pain in the abdomen and our subsequent actions.

Why does the stomach hurt

There are two main types of abdominal pain: visceral and parietal.

The cause of visceral pain is irritation of nerve endings in the walls of internal organs caused by their stretching or spasm. Such pains are also called colic, and their intensity is variable. It is often difficult to determine where the focus of pain is located.

Parietal pain due to irritation of the abdominal wall. This happens, for example, when a stomach ulcer perforates. In this case, the muscles of the peritoneum are significantly strained. Such pain, most often, is sharp and cutting, has a well-defined center and a permanent character.

According to the duration of pain in the abdomen are divided into chronic and acute. And if chronic ones can last for a long time, then acute ones can last from several minutes to several hours. Acute pain indicates a sharp deterioration in health caused by various reasons. For example, this is how acute pancreatitis, cholecystitis and ulcers manifest themselves.

Where does it hurt?

Abdominal pains are divided into those that have a pronounced focus, and those that spread to large parts of the body. The possible cause of pain can be determined by its nature and the location of the epicenter:

• Pain between the navel and solar plexus. They occur with diseases of the stomach (gastritis, ulcers, etc.), cholecystitis, inflammation of the duodenum or pancreas.
• Pain around and around the umbilicus. Often caused by a bowel disorder or inflammation of the appendix. The latter requires immediate hospitalization of the patient due to a direct threat to life.
• Pain below the navel. This is how problems with the intestines and, most often, with the rectum manifest themselves. In women, it can signal diseases of the genitourinary system. Pain of such localization also occurs during menstruation or during pregnancy. In men, diseases of the urinary system are manifested in this way.
• Significant pain in the right upper abdomen indicates inflammation of the gallbladder. Such symptoms are with inflammation of the pancreas and duodenum. With all these diseases, the pain can shift to the middle of the abdomen and even to the back.
• When pain occurs in the left side of the abdomen, the stomach, pancreas or large intestine does not function normally.
• Pain in the lower right and left side of the abdomen – a reason to examine the colon and rectum, respectively.

A gastroenterologist as a specialist in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract will be able to determine the cause of pain in the abdomen.

For pain caused by diseases of the genitourinary system, you will need a consultation with a urologist or gynecologist.

What to do if the stomach hurts

Regardless of the nature of the pain and the localization of its focus, if the pain appears regularly and lasts for a long time or it is acute, you should immediately seek help from doctors. If you are in St. Petersburg, then you can always come for a consultation to our clinic. Experienced doctors with the help of modern equipment will accurately determine the cause of abdominal pain and prescribe effective treatment.

What not to do in case of pain in the abdomen

There is a clear list of what should never be done in case of pain in the abdomen:

• Do not apply a hot heating pad to the source of pain and in general to the stomach or try to warm the sore spot in any other way. To alleviate the condition, try to apply something cold on the contrary.
• Before determining the cause of the pain and consulting a doctor, do not take painkillers. Taking them, you can change the symptoms of the disease in such a way that it will be impossible to make an accurate diagnosis of the state of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Under no circumstances should acute or prolonged pain be tolerated, especially if it is accompanied by fever, prolonged (more than 2-3 times) vomiting, loss of consciousness, the presence of blood in the vomit, the appearance of bloody stools. If any alarming symptom appears, you should immediately seek medical help.

Remember that with the help of pain, the body signals to us that there is a problem. The sooner the disease is detected and appropriate treatment is started, the sooner full recovery can be achieved and possible complications can be avoided. The doctors of our clinic in St. Petersburg will always help you with this.

Can you lose weight using Ozempic Injection Medication for Diabetes?

A rumor has gone viral on the Internet that celebrities, led by Kim Kardashian, are losing weight with the help of injections of a diabetes drug. Figured it out together with experts, is it true that “magic injections” will help to part with extra pounds? Does this remedy have contraindications? (Spoiler – yes.) And is it possible to assign it to yourself? (Spoiler – of course not.)

Tags:

health

grooming

Rules of Life

Even if you don’t follow the Kardashian family, it’s almost impossible to avoid news about them. So it is likely that you have come across photographs of a noticeably thinner Kim Kardashian. The star and businesswoman emphasizes her figure with the help of tight-fitting outfits, and tells reporters and fans that strict restrictions helped her achieve the effect. She completely eliminated sugar and carbohydrates, and also trains twice a day in a sauna suit. True, there was a rumor on the Internet that Kim (and she was not alone) was losing weight with the help of Ozempic injections.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

One of the sources of the “sensation” was the comedian Heather McDonald. On the Juicy Scoop podcast, she stated something like this: “A lot of people are wondering how the Kardashians lose weight so quickly and their bodies completely transform. Everyone discusses this topic and mentions the Ozempic medicine.

Ozempic is the brand name under which the Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk sells semaglutide injectables. It is injected once a week in the buttock or abdomen to treat type 2 diabetes. Back in 2021, experts proved the effectiveness of the drug against obesity and overweight. Almost 2,000 overweight people took part in the study, and those who received semaglutide (rather than placebo) lost an average of 15% of their total body weight.

“Semaglutide is an analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a natural hormone in the body that is involved in glucose metabolism and also helps regulate appetite,” explains Hovhannes Vagenovich Davidyan, a general practitioner, a specialist in integrative anti-age- medicine “Life Med Center”. “Ozempic and other type 2 diabetes medications can actually help with weight loss. By acting on specific receptors in the body, they suppress appetite and slow down the process of digestion. As a result, a person feels less hungry, feels fuller faster, and consumes fewer calories.”

New York plastic surgeon David Schafer confirmed to WWD that he has been using Ozempic in his clinic for more than a year and the popularity of this drug is only growing. About 20 patients apply for injections every day, and everyone is ready to pay from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. After all, insurance does not cover such use of the drug. Schafer himself, thanks to Ozempic, lost 20 pounds (about 9 kg), and one of his employees lost 30 pounds (about 13 kg). When asked about side effects, the doctor reports the following: “When I eat cheese or fatty foods, I feel sick. But that’s all.”

The same semaglutide is produced under the brand name Wegovy (this drug is not registered in Russia), and Elon Musk has already admitted to using it. Therefore, the sudden interest in Ozempic and its active discussion are reminiscent of viral marketing. After all, everyone knows that the name Kardashian helps to sell anything: from cosmetics to slimming underwear.

And in general, weight management with the help of diabetic drugs is not a new story. For example, our endocrinologists often prescribe metformin for this purpose (Glucophage, Metadiene, etc.). This drug promotes the rapid oxidation of fatty acids, prevents the active absorption of carbohydrates, lowers cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood, and also suppresses hunger caused by low levels of the hormone insulin. In addition, we have registered and produce Saxenda, which is an analogue of Ozempic.

An important disclaimer: only a doctor can prescribe such drugs and choose the right dosage based on the results of the tests. In addition, he must warn about side effects and make sure that you are allowed such therapy for health reasons. “There are plenty of contraindications for such drugs. These are pregnancy, breastfeeding, problems with the pancreas or kidneys,” says Hovhannes Vagenovich. – In addition, the instructions describe a huge number of side effects: pancreatitis, hypoglycemia, kidney failure, visual impairment, allergic reactions, problems with the gallbladder. Of course, such reactions are rather rare. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and constipation.”

“Personally, I consider the use of diabetic drugs for body shaping to be extremely unsafe,” says Elena Krokhmaleva, PhD in Biology, senior researcher at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, gerontologist, nutritionist. — Yes, they regulate the level of glucose in the blood and restore the normal functioning of the pancreas. And yet they have too many contraindications. Is a slim figure worth planting a liver and kidneys? It is much wiser to add at least moderate physical activity and balance the diet. And you can help yourself with the help of vitamins and herbal dietary supplements. For example, vitamin D and omega regulate metabolism, promoting weight loss. There have also been publications on the positive effect of mulberry extract on weight loss. The result will not be so fast, but physiological and without side effects for the body.”

It is important to understand: neither metformin nor semaglutide burn fat on their own, but only create favorable conditions for getting rid of it. Along with taking the drug, it is recommended to go in for sports and adhere to a strict diet (remove starchy foods and sweets, as well as exclude alcohol). It will not be possible to achieve a noticeable result without additional efforts on your part. Or it won’t last long. “I recommend doing 10-15 thousand steps a day, regardless of whether you are taking any additional drugs or not,” says Ovanes Vagenovich.