8. Medication Side Effects: When the Cure Becomes the Culprit
Ever flipped over a medicine packet to read the side effects and found “may cause stomach discomfort”? That’s a polite way of saying it might invite GERD over. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax. Pain relievers, antihistamines, and even some antidepressants can be silent instigators.
The situation is doubly ironic because medications meant to improve your quality of life can end up making mealtime a nightmare. The acids that medicines sometimes contain can directly irritate the esophagus lining, serving as a double blow in an already sensitive area.
Don’t overlook the domino effect medications can have. For example, if you’re on a drug that causes dry mouth, less saliva is produced. Saliva normally helps neutralize stomach acid, so a dry mouth can exacerbate GERD symptoms.
However, it’s not all gloom and doom. If medication is your GERD trigger, a consultation could result in alternative prescriptions that don’t have the same side effects. It’s all about finding the right balance, and sometimes that requires a little trial and error.
So, next time you’re at the pharmacy, don’t just grab and go. Check the side effects, consult with professionals, and weigh your options. Medications can be life-changing in both positive and negative ways; awareness helps you aim for the former. (8)
