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How Does Zantac Work?
Question: When I have stomach burning, I take a Zantac the burning goes away. No to be silly but is this because I have to much acid in my stomach and Zantac lowers it?
Brief Answer:
Information
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
The stomach burning symptom can either be from over production of stomach acid, or irritation of the stomach lining or lower end of the esophagus, making it more vulnerable to stomach acid or reflux of acid.
Zantac (ranitidine) is an H2 (Histamine type 2) antagonist that decreases production of acid. H2 blockers like Zantac decrease stomach acid by approximately 70 percent, which allows for enough acid to digest food, but also allows the stomach lining to heal. And with less acid, if the problem is in the lower esophagus due to reflux, that can heal too.
There are also proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium, but I generally do not recommend these if Zantac will work. PPIs can cause rebound stomach hyperacidity when they are discontinued, and have other risks. So stick with the Zantac as it is safest.
Does this answer your question? You may temporarily have too much acid due to something you ate, or some irritation, or you may have reflux.
Information
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
The stomach burning symptom can either be from over production of stomach acid, or irritation of the stomach lining or lower end of the esophagus, making it more vulnerable to stomach acid or reflux of acid.
Zantac (ranitidine) is an H2 (Histamine type 2) antagonist that decreases production of acid. H2 blockers like Zantac decrease stomach acid by approximately 70 percent, which allows for enough acid to digest food, but also allows the stomach lining to heal. And with less acid, if the problem is in the lower esophagus due to reflux, that can heal too.
There are also proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium, but I generally do not recommend these if Zantac will work. PPIs can cause rebound stomach hyperacidity when they are discontinued, and have other risks. So stick with the Zantac as it is safest.
Does this answer your question? You may temporarily have too much acid due to something you ate, or some irritation, or you may have reflux.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you for that detailed answer! I fully understand. One more question, what is your view on alkaline diets? I looked the diet and decided it is to hard to maintain,plus some things on the acidic list do not bother me i.e. eggs,white bread. Whole wheat even causes more acid production for me and it is on the alkaline list??? I try to eat whatever does not bother my stomach. Thanks for your time!!!
Brief Answer:
Information
Detailed Answer:
These sorts of lists are just rough guides. Yes, eat what works for you - everyone is different. Things that generally do increase acid though are consuming caffeine, or at least a lot of caffeine, and highly acidic foods, such as a strong pineapple or sour lemon or orange. If the problem is reflux, peppermint should be avoided as it can relax the lower esophagus, allowing more food/acid to come up. But eat what you find ok for you.
For healing the stomach lining, food rich in Vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes can be helpful.
For decreasing overall acidity, increasing green vegetables is a general guide. If raw irritates you, eat them cooked.
Information
Detailed Answer:
These sorts of lists are just rough guides. Yes, eat what works for you - everyone is different. Things that generally do increase acid though are consuming caffeine, or at least a lot of caffeine, and highly acidic foods, such as a strong pineapple or sour lemon or orange. If the problem is reflux, peppermint should be avoided as it can relax the lower esophagus, allowing more food/acid to come up. But eat what you find ok for you.
For healing the stomach lining, food rich in Vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes can be helpful.
For decreasing overall acidity, increasing green vegetables is a general guide. If raw irritates you, eat them cooked.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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