Increased acidity is called a disease of the 21st century. This is a common human disease. A stressful lifestyle, erratic diets and irregular eating habits contribute to increased stomach acidity. Increased stomach acidity is certainly a serious human disease that requires proper treatment. Below we will consider the causes of acidity, the signs that accompany it and methods of treatment.

Stress can cause increased stomach acid levels.

Causes of high acidity

Let's find out what normal human acidity means and why it can be disrupted. When you eat, food is broken down for absorption. nutrients in the body, which contributes to the digestion process. Digestion is the process of digesting food in the acidic and alkaline environment of the gastrointestinal tract. The activity of the digestive process depends primarily on the level of acidity in it. The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for digesting food. It acts as a catalyst that stimulates enzymes such as pepsin and trypsin.

When food enters the digestive tract, the smooth muscles of the stomach contract, preventing secreted acid from entering the esophagus. When effective muscle contraction is impaired, acidic gastric juice enters the esophagus, turning the process of food digestion into an aggressive one. This is how hypersecretion of the stomach manifests itself. This is why heartburn, burning sensation, sore stomach, and unpleasant taste appear.

There is such a definition as reduced, decreased secretory insufficiency of the stomach. When the stomach, on the contrary, produces an insufficient amount of gastric juice necessary for digestion, secretory (reduced, reduced) gastric insufficiency occurs. Low acidity is dangerous for the body, since the low level of gastric juice does not support the digestion process.

Gastric hypersecretion can be caused by a number of reasons. Typically, the causes of high stomach acidity are divided into two categories. External factors, including:

• constant stress;
• consumption of fast foods, fatty heavy foods, irregular meals;
• overeating and snacking;
• smoking;
• alcohol abuse;
• side effects from taking certain medicines. Some non-steroidal and hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs (Analgin, Ibuprofen) cause excessive secretion of gastric juice and destroy its mucous membrane;
• consequences of diet.

Internal, such as:

• chronic stomach disease: ulcers, gastritis, cancer;
• metabolic disease;
• can often occur in pregnant women.

Diseases with increased stomach acidity

Increased stomach acidity can be an accompanying symptom of the following diseases:

• stomach ulcer;
• gastritis;
• syndrome (cardiac sphincter);
• diabetes;
• inflammation of the antrum of the stomach (upper part);
• obesity;
• stones in the kidneys;

Symptoms

Stomach pH if the stomach acidity is increased, the symptoms are as follows:

• nausea and vomiting that occurs after eating;
• dyspnea;
• persistent, prolonged heartburn (especially acute during pregnancy and in children);
• chest pain;
• bloating;
• joint pain;
• dizziness;
• there is a decrease in appetite;
• sometimes there is a persistent feeling of hunger (feeling of unsaturation);
• the occurrence of metabolic disorders;
• pain in the stomach after eating;
• hormonal imbalances;
• high excitability;
• nervous syndromes;
• there is heaviness in the stomach;
• decreased vital activity;
• sour belching that tastes like just eaten food;
• stool disorders;
• an aching burning sensation in the pit of the stomach.

Treatment

To diagnose the disease, special outpatient pH-metry of the esophagus is performed. pH testing is a test to determine the amount of acid in the esophagus. With a normal level of acidity, the normal pH measurement of the stomach is from 7.2 to 8.0. In addition to pH measurements, diagnostics sometimes require an x-ray of the esophagus, manometry of the digestive system, endoscopy and biopsy.

To treat the syndrome and normalize the digestive process, a set of measures is taken that are necessary to neutralize and reduce the concentration of gastric juice, including taking medications, pills, special nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. Sometimes, if the disease progresses and no improvement is observed, enhanced therapy is required. If you find signs of increased acidity, do not ignore them and, in order to cure them, consult a doctor immediately!

Drugs

For enhanced treatment of the syndrome, treatment with antacids and proton pump blockers, including magnesium, calcium and aluminum, is used. These medications are designed to neutralize large amounts of secretion of hydrochloric acid in the esophagus and treat associated symptoms.

Be careful with medication. Not every medicine can be taken during pregnancy (especially pills).

To reduce the level of hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach and bring digestive functions back to normal, the following drugs are prescribed:

• “Famotidine”;
• “Omeprazole” (omez);
• “Conralok”;
• “Pantoprazole”;
• "Ranitidine".

Although these drugs have a neutralizing effect and are designed to combat acidity, these drugs are contraindicated for long-term use because they have a negative effect on hormones. And the more effectively a drug that reduces acidity treats, the stronger the side effects. In addition, not all products can be taken by pregnant women and children (especially when it comes to tablets).

For inflammation of the stomach and in order to secure the intake and normalize the amount of hydrochloric acid secretion, the following drugs and tablets are prescribed:

• “Almagel”;
• “Phosphalugel”;
• “Gastal”;
• “Maalox.”

In order to normalize the direction of gastric juice and treat stomach pain caused by pathology, the following drugs are used:

• "Motilium";
• "Domidon".

Proper nutrition

The basis for treating high acidity in the body is, of course, a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, which will result in the normalization of the digestion process:

• do not eat spicy foods with a lot of spices;
• eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. They remove toxins and neutralize mineral salts and reduce their amount;
• meals should be fractional and, of course, regular in case of increased stomach acidity;
• The last meal should be several hours before bedtime.

Diet

Excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid requires the following nutritional rules:

• eat regularly, in small portions 5-6 times a day for stomach inflammation;
• do not eat later than 4 hours before bedtime;
• do not eat hard-to-digest foods with increased stomach acidity;
• Chew your food well;
• Don't go to bed on a full stomach. Lying down immediately after eating can cause stomach acid to move back up the tract instead of down. As a result, this only contributes to the stimulation of an increase in acidity levels.

Diet

The diet used for stomach acidity is based on food that is gentle on the functions of the gastrointestinal tract. During such a diet, fatty and spicy foods, sausages, pickles, marinades, carbonated drinks, and fast foods are excluded from consumption. The basis of the diet consists of foods that reduce acidity levels. This can significantly improve the situation:

• Dishes that contain a lot of calcium bring immediate relief from acidity and accompanying pain;
• Drinking cold milk in small quantities after meals can help reduce acidity and overcome heartburn. Hydrochloric acid will be eliminated from the body by drinking milk;
• A pinch of baking soda added to a glass of water gives immediate relief and will provide stimulation to fight heartburn and acidity;
• Sour seasonings, sauces, vinegar, and marinades should be removed from the diet;
• Completely eliminate fast foods, fatty and heavy foods. They can also increase acidity;
• Eat a large amount of fresh vegetables and fruits in case of increased stomach acidity and accompanying pain, ulcers, in order to get rid of heartburn, you can make purees and salads from them;
• Avoid vegetables and fruits that increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid; onions, radishes, tomatoes, peppers, citrus fruits. Because of them, as a rule, an increase in acidity occurs;

• Eating mint is beneficial. It effectively helps cope with high acidity secretion and heartburn. Its use is especially useful for pregnant women and children;
• Cereal-based porridges that perform an enveloping function are perfect: rice, barley, corn, oatmeal;
• It will be useful to use honey. It stimulates the normalization of the gastrointestinal tract, brings it back to normal and, in addition, honey helps get rid of irritation of the gastric mucosa. It stimulates acid excretion activity;
• Bananas contain large amounts of potassium. By consuming them daily, you can relieve the symptoms of high stomach acidity, signs of the disease, and even get rid of them completely;
• Ginger is useful in treating digestion related problems. However, it is not recommended to use ginger if you have a stomach ulcer;
• It is necessary to remove alcohol, tobacco, carbonated drinks and caffeine from the diet. They irritate the walls of the stomach and cause the concentration of gastric juice to increase and even cause an ulcer;
• Food must be low temperature(not hot) when the body’s pH level decreases;
• It is necessary to remove chocolate and sweet confectionery products from consumption;
• Pureed soups and purees are good, they do not cause heartburn and are gentle on the gastrointestinal tract;
• A little (up to 2 tbsp) vegetable (preferably olive) oil is allowed;
• Opt for reduced-fat meats to lower pH levels;

• Dairy products. Dairy products such as butter, processed cheese, and ice cream are acidic in nature and help stimulate acidity. Replace butter to olive, exclude cheese products, and replace ice cream with pudding;
• Legumes. Beans are sour in nature. Lentils and olives help increase acidity in the stomach. They are especially useful during pregnancy and for children;
• Fruits. Most berries, plums, prunes, currants are acidic in nature and should be avoided if you suffer from increased stomach acidity and accompanying pain;
• Eat plenty of fish and seafood. They are able to normalize the process and functions of digestion;
• And finally, you need to drink mineral water with increased acidity of the human stomach and accompanying pain. You need to drink mineral water about 8-10 glasses a day ( daily norm water for an adult - about two liters). The benefits of mineral water are invaluable. Regular mineral water helps stimulate the body's fight against pathologies and infections. Take mineral water with you to work and drink it instead of coffee. Mineral water is able to remove toxins and neutralize mineral salts in the body, and has normalizing effects. However, do not drink it during meals or immediately after meals. In this case, mineral water will dilute gastric juice, preventing normal activity digestion and eradication of stomach pain.

Increased stomach acidity has a negative effect on digestive processes and the condition of the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort. Accompanies some diseases of the digestive system, including gastritis and peptic ulcers.

The acidity of the stomach, i.e., the pH of gastric juice, is determined by the concentration of hydrochloric acid contained in it, produced by parietal cells. Hydrochloric acid is necessary for the normal digestion process. Its main functions:

• imparts antibacterial properties to gastric juice;
• activates the action of digestive enzymes of gastric juice;
• denatures proteins and also promotes their swelling;
• stimulates the secretory activity of the pancreas;
• regulates the evacuation function of the stomach.

Causes

The most common cause of increased stomach acidity is a nutritional factor, i.e., improper, irrational nutrition. Spicy, salty, fatty foods, and alcoholic drinks have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, as a result of which the parietal cells begin to secrete hydrochloric acid in greater quantities than required. The nutritional factor also includes too rapid absorption of food. In this case, a poorly chewed bolus of food enters the stomach, not sufficiently moistened with saliva, containing too large particles. To digest it, a larger amount of gastric juice is required, and therefore hydrochloric acid, which leads to increased acid production, and therefore to an increase in the acidity of gastric juice.

An increased concentration of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice can cause damage to the mucous membrane digestive tract.

Other causes of increased stomach acidity may include:

1. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or corticosteroids, since they have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa.
2. Chronic stress. In itself, it does not have a negative effect on the state of the digestive system, however, being in a depressed state, a person stops eating properly, often smokes, drinks alcohol, which negatively affects the gastric mucosa.
3. Smoking. Nicotine has a stimulating effect on parietal cells, resulting in an increase in stomach acidity.
4. Infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. This is a unique microorganism that can survive in an acidic environment. Once in the stomach, bacteria produce urease, which has an irritating effect on its walls. In an effort to destroy these bacteria, stomach cells intensively synthesize hydrochloric acid and pepsin.

Symptoms of high stomach acidity

The main symptoms of increased stomach acidity are epigastric pain and heartburn. The pain is nagging, aching and dull in nature, in most cases it occurs 1.5-2 hours after eating. Heartburn develops as a result of gastric juice entering the esophagus. Often its appearance is provoked by eating foods that increase stomach acidity:

• orange or tomato juice;
• spicy and/or fatty foods;
• smoked meats;
• some types of mineral water.

Other symptoms of high stomach acidity include:

• nausea, and in some cases vomiting, occurring 15-20 minutes after eating;
• belching sour;
• frequent intestinal colic;
• the appearance of a white-gray coating on the tongue.

Diagnostics

To determine the acidity of gastric juice in clinical practice, the following methods are used:

1. Intragastric pH-metry. With help special device determine the acidity of the stomach in its various sections. The method allows for both short-term and daily pH measurements.
2. Fractional intubation of the stomach. The procedure is performed on an empty stomach. A thick probe is inserted into the patient's stomach through the mouth, and then the gastric contents are sucked out using a Janet syringe at certain intervals. This technique allows you to evaluate the characteristics of the secretory function of the stomach, as well as perform a laboratory study of gastric juice with determination of its pH. However, fractional intubation cannot provide accurate results, since gastric juice is mixed from different zones, and in addition, the probe itself irritates the gastric mucosa. Normally, the content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice should be 0.4–0.5%.
3. Gastrotest, or acidotest. Before the study begins, the patient completely empties the bladder, after which he takes special medications orally. After a certain period of time, the patient urinates again and the acidity of the gastric juice is assessed based on the degree of coloration of the urine. The method is imperfect, so it is rarely used today.

You can detect increased acidity of gastric juice at home. To do this, you should drink a glass of freshly squeezed water on an empty stomach. apple juice, containing no additives. If after some time a burning sensation appears behind the sternum, a feeling of heaviness or pain in the epigastric region, then the acidity is most likely increased.

Increased stomach acidity accompanies some diseases of the digestive system, including gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Treatment of high stomach acidity

Drug treatment of high gastric acidity is carried out with drugs from the following pharmacological groups:

• proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazole, Pantoprozole, Nolpaza) – reduce the secretion of hydrochloric acid by the parietal cells of the stomach by blocking H + /K + -ATPase;
• H2-histamine receptor blockers (Ranitidine, Cimetidine) - block histamine receptors, thereby reducing the secretion of hydrochloric acid and pepsin;
• antacids (Phosphalugel, Almagel, Rennie, Gastal) – neutralize hydrochloric acid in gastric juice, thereby eliminating heartburn, pain and discomfort;
• blockers of M1-cholinergic receptors, which have a predominant effect on stomach receptors (Gastrocepin) - inhibit the secretion of pepsin and hydrochloric acid, have a gastroprotective effect;
• antibacterial drugs - therapy for helicobacteriosis.

To prevent relapse, it is extremely important to adhere to proper nutrition for a long time, or even better – for life.

In case of severe pain, antispasmodics (Papaverine, No-shpa), as well as local anesthetics orally (novocaine solution, tablets with anesthesin) are prescribed.

Some patients take a solution of baking soda orally to eliminate symptoms of increased stomach acidity. Soda enters into a neutralization reaction with hydrochloric acid, as a result of which pain in the abdominal area and heartburn quickly disappear. But such treatment of increased stomach acidity subsequently leads to even greater secretion of hydrochloric acid by parietal cells. As a result chemical reaction between baking soda and hydrochloric acid, table salt and carbonic acid are formed, which is an unstable chemical compound that easily breaks down into water and carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide irritates the gastric mucosa, thereby causing increased secretion of hydrochloric acid. As a result, there is an even greater increase in stomach acidity. This phenomenon in medicine is called “acid rebound”.

Diet for high stomach acidity

Modern pharmacological treatment of high stomach acidity allows you to quickly eliminate the patient’s complaints and improve his condition. However, in most cases, after some time, patients again begin to suffer from epigastric pain and heartburn. To prevent relapses, it is extremely important to adhere to proper nutrition for a long time, or even better, for life. The basic rules of the diet for high stomach acidity are:

• eating 5-6 times a day in small portions (so-called fractional meals);
• providing mechanical and chemical sparing of the stomach;
• a diet completely balanced in the content of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins and microelements.

For patients suffering from diseases accompanied by high acidity of gastric juice, diet No. 1 according to Pevzner has been developed, corresponding to the listed principles. During a period of sharp exacerbation of the disease, patients are prescribed diet No. 1a for 6-8 days: dishes are prepared only by stewing or boiling, they are pureed and served warm, foods that can irritate the gastric mucosa and increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid are excluded:

• raw vegetables, berries and fruits;
• alcohol, carbonated drinks, strong tea, cocoa, coffee;
• chocolate;
• herbs, spices, sauces;
• fermented milk products (including cheese);
• bakery products.

Spicy, salty, fatty foods, and alcoholic drinks have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, which can result in increased stomach acidity.

During the period of mild exacerbation, as well as when the intensity of clinical manifestations of exacerbation decreases, diet No. 1 is recommended. With it, dishes are prepared by stewing, boiling, steaming and baking in the oven (without forming a crust). Well-cooked meat or fish can be served in portions; all other dishes should have a mushy consistency. The diet limits foods that have a stimulating effect on the gastric mucosa, such as broths. Completely excluded:

• herbs and spices;
• chocolate, ice cream;
• sour and unripe berries, fruits;
• cabbage, onions, turnips, rutabaga, cucumbers, radishes, sorrel, spinach;
• mushrooms;
• legumes;
• marinades and pickles;
• corn, pearl barley, barley, millet cereals;
• fried or hard-boiled eggs;
• sharp and salty cheeses;
• fatty fish;
• fatty meats;
• fresh and/or rye bread.

Treatment of high stomach acidity with traditional methods

As with any other pathology, treatment for high stomach acidity should be prescribed by a doctor. In agreement with him, the treatment regimen can be supplemented with some folk remedies, for example:

• carrot juice;
• freshly squeezed juice from red potato tubers;
• water infusion of chaga (birch mushroom);
• water infusions and decoctions medicinal herbs(chamomile, peppermint, St. John's wort, centaury).

Prevention

Prevention of the development of high stomach acidity should be based, first of all, on organizing proper, balanced nutrition:

• eating small portions of food;
• chewing food thoroughly;
• inclusion in the diet of foods rich in plant fibers, vitamins, microelements, and protein;
• limiting fatty and spicy foods;
• refusal to eat fast food, snacks, so-called junk food;
• giving up alcoholic beverages and smoking.

Equally important in the prevention of high stomach acidity is the correct lifestyle:

• avoidance of stressful situations;
• regular exercise;
• compliance with the optimal work and rest regime.

It is also necessary to treat promptly infectious diseases, since they can lead to disruption of the secretory activity of cells of the gastric mucosa.

Possible consequences and complications

Excessive content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice is dangerous for the development of severe complications that are difficult to treat. The entry of aggressive gastric contents into the lumen of the esophagus is not only accompanied by the unpleasant sensation of heartburn, but also causes damage to its mucous membrane. Long-term gastroesophageal reflux is the main cause of the formation of an esophageal ulcer, and its subsequent possible degeneration into a malignant tumor.

An increased concentration of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice can cause damage to the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. Initially, such damage is superficial and is called erosion. Subsequently, the defect spreads deeper, which leads to the formation of ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. This is a serious disease that requires long-term systematic treatment. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications:

• ulcer malignancy;
• internal bleeding;
• stenosis of the pylorus of the stomach and/or duodenum with obstruction;

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Increased stomach acidity is a problem faced by half of the population of our planet. This prevalence of this disorder can be explained by the modern rhythm of life, dietary habits and the quality of the products we eat.

In this topic, we will provide you with comprehensive information about what high stomach acidity is, what the symptoms are and treatment for this pathology.

Gastric juice is a colorless liquid with an acidic pH that is produced by the gastric mucosal epithelial cells.

The composition of gastric juice includes substances such as:

• hydrochloric acid;
• enzymes (pepsin, gastrixin);
• hormones (gastrin);
• slime;
• minerals (sodium chloride, potassium chloride, ammonium chloride, phosphates, sulfates);
• organic components (urea, glucose, acetic and lactic acids).

During the day, about 2000 ml of juice is produced in the stomach of an adult healthy person.

Due to the constant production of hydrochloric acid, the body manages to maintain an acidic environment in the stomach cavity. Therefore, an increase or decrease in acidity in the stomach directly depends on the amount of hydrochloric acid in the gastric juice.

The main task of this enzyme is to break down proteins into small chains, which facilitates their absorption into the body. small intestine. Hydrochloric acid also takes part in the metabolism and absorption of iron, destroys pathogenic microorganisms that penetrate the stomach, and regulates the acid-base balance in the body.

Hydrochloric acid is produced by the parietal cells of the stomach, which are located on the fundus and body of the stomach.

The following factors may affect the production of hydrochloric acid:

• activity of the autonomic nervous system;
• rough and irritating food;
• acidity level in the stomach;
• motor activity of the stomach walls;
• the amount of gastrin and cholecystokinin-pancreozymin in gastric juice.

The presence of at least one of these factors can increase acidity in the stomach.

All the reasons that cause hypersecretion of hydrochloric acid, and, accordingly, an increase in the level of acidity of juice in the stomach, can be grouped into two groups - external and internal.

To external factors The following can be considered:

• psycho-emotional shock;
• neuroses;
• lack of sleep;
• unbalanced and unhealthy diet (fatty, fried and spicy foods, smoked foods, fast food, irregular meals, overeating, strict diet);
• harmful (smoking, alcohol abuse);
• taking medications that affect the gastric mucosa (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal agents, cytostatics);

To internal factors include factors such as:

• chronic stomach diseases (peptic ulcer, cancer, gastritis);
• hyperproduction of the hormone gastrin (pancreatic tumor, increased activity of the stomach glands that secrete gastrin);
• hormonal changes in the body (pregnancy, puberty, menopause);
• metabolic disorders.

Only by identifying and eliminating the cause that provoked the increase in acidity in the stomach can a positive, and most importantly, lasting effect of treatment be achieved.

Patients with increased stomach acidity may complain of the following:

• heartburn of a constant or periodic nature, especially after eating;
• belching acid;
• bitter taste in the mouth;
• intestinal colic;
• frequent constipation;
• hunger;
• appearance white plaque along the midline of the tongue;
• nausea, sometimes with vomiting, which brings relief;
• aching and nagging pain in the epigastrium 2-3 hours after eating.

If you have the above signs of high acidity, then you should not delay contacting a specialist. Timely diagnosis and treatment in this case will help avoid serious health consequences.

A gastroenterologist is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that are accompanied by increased acidity in the stomach.

The algorithm for examining a patient with excess acidity in the stomach is as follows:

• collection of complaints;
• collection of anamnesis of illness and life. The specialist is trying to find out the presence of the above external factors, which could lead to excess acidity in the stomach;
• examination (bloating, coating on the tongue);
• palpation (pain on palpation in the epigastrium);
• general blood and urine analysis;
• blood chemistry;
• blood sugar test;
• fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy (FEGDS), which allows you to visually assess the condition of the gastric mucosa and take material for histological examination);
• tests to determine the bacteria Helicobacter pylori in the stomach;
• ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs;
• biopsy and histological examination of the obtained material.

Methods for determining acidity in the stomach

Acidity in the stomach can be determined using special laboratory tests.

• Express method. There are special test strips (Acidotest, Gastrotest) that allow you to instantly determine the acidity in the stomach. To do this, you need to dip the strip in the urine and after 2-3 minutes evaluate the result on the scale that is printed on the test package. This method has low efficiency and is therefore rarely used.
• Probing of the stomach is fractional. A rubber probe is inserted into the patient's stomach, through which samples of juice are taken from the bottom, body and pylorus, after which the material is delivered to the laboratory, where the acidity is determined. This method also has its own errors.
• pH-metry of the stomach. A probe is inserted into the stomach, which is equipped with pH sensors. Using such sensors, you can measure acidity in different parts of the stomach. This method is considered the most accurate.

Normally, the acidity in the stomach should be between 1.5 and 2.0 pH.

Treatment of high stomach acidity

Acidity in the stomach can be normalized with the help of modern antacid medications. But you need to understand that any medicine can only be prescribed by a specialist, since self-medication can cause irreversible harm to health.

Most effective drugs, which are used for excess stomach acidity, are the following:

• Omeprazole;
• Pantoprazole.

Review of drugs for the treatment of high acidity

This drug is available in the form of tablets and solution for injection, the active ingredient of which is pirenzepine, a substance that blocks muscarinic receptors and reduces the secretion of hydrochloric acid.

Gastrocepin is used for stomach diseases that are accompanied by high acidity (peptic ulcer, gastritis).

This drug is contraindicated in persons with allergies to its components, as well as with severe renal impairment and paralytic intestinal obstruction. In addition, Gastrocepin is not recommended for use by children, pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Gastrocepin is taken 2 tablets (50 mg) twice a day half an hour before meals.

Cost of the drug: Gastrocepin 25 mg 50 tablets – 270-430 rubles.

Phosphalugel belongs to antacid drugs and is a gel consisting of aluminum phosphate, pectin, sorbitol and agar-agar.

The main indication of the drug is stomach diseases that are accompanied by excessive acidity (gastritis, stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux). The drug can also be used in complex therapy intestinal infections, poisoning and diarrhea.

Phosphalugel is contraindicated in persons who are intolerant to aluminum phosphate and other components of the drug. Can be used in children and pregnant women as prescribed by the treating doctor.

Phosphalugel is prescribed to adults 1-2 sachets two or three times a day two hours after meals. For children, a single dose of 1-2 teaspoons is recommended.

The average cost of the drug is 230 rubles per package (20 sachets).

Rennie is an antacid drug with a gastroprotective effect, the active ingredients of which are magnesium and calcium carbonate. Rennie tablets are available in menthol and orange flavors.

The mechanism of action of the drug is to neutralize hydrochloric acid, thereby reducing the acidity in the stomach cavity.

Rennie is widely used for stomach diseases that are accompanied by excessive acidity, as well as for heartburn of various natures.

Rennie is contraindicated in patients with allergies to magnesium and calcium carbonate, severe renal failure and hypercalcemia. Rennie tablets can relieve heartburn in pregnant women.

The average cost of the drug is 250 rubles per package (24 tables).

Ranitidine belongs to a group of drugs that block histamine H2 receptors. The drug is widely used in the treatment of gastric ulcers, since, by reducing acidity, it creates a favorable background for the healing of ulcers and erosions.

The dose is selected individually by the doctor. In most cases, patients are prescribed 1 tablet (150 mg) twice a day. The duration of treatment is also determined by specialists and averages 1-2 months.

The average cost of the drug is 60 rubles per package (20 tables).

Both drugs belong to the group of proton pump inhibitors.

The active substance of Omeprazole is omeprazole, and Pantoprazole is pantoprazole sodium sesquihydrate.

Both drugs inhibit the functioning of the glands that secrete hydrochloric acid by blocking the proton pump of the parietal cells of the gastric mucosa.

Omeprazole and Pantoprazole are used in the treatment of peptic ulcers, hyperacid gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, and are also included in the treatment regimen for Helicobacter pylori.

These drugs are contraindicated in persons with hypersensitivity to their components and in children under 12 years of age. Can be prescribed to pregnant women.

Omeprazole is prescribed 1 tablet (20 mg) in the morning an hour before breakfast.

Pantoprazole is taken one hour before meals, 1 tablet (20 mg) once a day.

Average cost of drugs:

• Omeprazole 20 mg 30 tablets. – 80 rubles;
• Pantoprazole 20 mg 28 tablets. – 210 rubles.

All patients suffering from high stomach acidity are prescribed a diet.

The diet consists of excluding from the diet foods that increase acidity in the stomach cavity.

List of foods contraindicated for excess stomach acidity:

• fatty foods;
• onions, garlic, radish and sorrel;
• sour fruits and berries;
• black bread;
• fast food;
• smoked meats;
• spicy seasonings;
• alcohol;
• caffeinated drinks;
• soda.

The daily diet of patients with high acidity should consist of the following dishes and products:

• cereal and vegetable soups;
• unrich broths;
• porridge with rice, oatmeal, pearl barley or semolina;
• lean varieties of meat, fish and poultry;
• fermented milk products with low fat content;
• vegetables (potatoes, beets, carrots, pumpkin, zucchini and others);
• eggs;
• fruit jelly.

When preparing dishes, preference should be given to gentle methods heat treatment(steamed, boiled, baked, stewed). All dishes must be consumed warm. It is recommended to eat food 5-6 times a day in small portions.

You can also treat high acidity with alkaline mineral waters (Essentuki No. 2 and No. 17, Borjomi, Polyana Kvasova, Luzhanskaya and others).

Increased acidity in the stomach is a rather unpleasant condition, which is accompanied by symptoms such as heartburn, sour belching, epigastric pain, constipation, flatulence and nausea. But strict adherence to specialist recommendations, diet and management will help eliminate this problem without serious health consequences.

Content

One of most important places Among the pathologies of the digestive system are stomach diseases. Among them there are both individual diseases and background conditions. Increased stomach acidity belongs to the second group, but is an important prerequisite for the development of irreversible pathological changes in the organ.

Medicines for high stomach acidity

To prevent the negative effects of hydrochloric acid, which is present in large quantities in gastric juice, doctors prescribe medications of different groups. The form of medication and treatment regimen are selected individually, depending on the patient’s condition, the cause of the pathological process, and the symptoms that appear. As a rule, drugs are used in the form of tablets, capsules, and suspensions. Treatment of high stomach acidity is carried out with the following groups of drugs:

• Antibiotics. Since the most common cause of high acidity is the active activity of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, the main method of combating it is the use of antibacterial agents. The most effective antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Tsiprolet, Metronidazole.
• Proton pump inhibitors. Their action is aimed at stopping the destruction of the digestive walls. Often prescribed: Helicol, Omez, Omeprazole.
• Antacids. They neutralize excess hydrochloric acid, eliminate spasms, and prevent the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. This group includes: Maalukol, Phosphalugel, Almagel.
• Sorbents. Effectively reduce acidity and prevent intoxication of the body. Frequently used: Polysorb, Activated carbon.
• Histamine receptor blockers. Accelerate the process of restoring hydrochloric acid levels. Doctors recommend the following medications: Famotidine, Ranitidine, Kvamatel.
• Antispasmodics. Reduce stomach pain that often accompanies heartburn. Popular drugs: No-shpa, Papaverine, Drotaverine.
• Neurotropic agents. Prescribed if the cause of high acidity is nervous overstrain or prolonged depression. Representatives of this group: Aprofen, Buscopan, Difacil.

In addition to these medications, combination drugs are often prescribed that have a complex effect on the body. They help not only get rid of acidity, but also other unpleasant symptoms (pain, nausea, vomiting). Among the best:

• Maalox. Antacid drug. Destroys free hydrochloric acid of gastric juice, has an enveloping, adsorbing effect. Active ingredients: Algeldrate and magnesium hydroxide. Prescribe 1-2 tablets 3-4 times/day after meals. Duration of treatment – ​​no more than 2-3 months. Side effects include: itching, urticaria, diarrhea, constipation. Contraindications for use: severe renal failure, fructose intolerance, hypophosphatemia, children under 15 years of age. The average cost of the drug is 206 rubles for 20 chewable tablets.
• Gastal. Combined antacid. Reduces acidity, eliminates dyspeptic symptoms (belching, heartburn, flatulence), enhances the regenerative and protective processes of the gastric mucosa. Basics active substance– magnesium hydroxide. Prescribe 1-2 absorbable tablets 4-6 times a day, 1 hour after meals. The duration of treatment is up to 14 days. During use, you may experience side effects in the form of changes in taste, nausea, constipation, diarrhea. The drug is contraindicated in severe renal failure, Alzheimer's disease, lactose intolerance, childhood up to 6 years old. average price medicine– 150 rubles for 12 tablets.
• Motilium. It has an antiemetic effect, accelerates emptying, increases the duration of duodenal and antral gastric contractions. The main active ingredient is domperidone. Prescribe the drug 10 mg (1 tablet) 3 times a day. The course of treatment is no longer than 4 weeks. Possible adverse reactions: dry mouth, menstrual irregularities, asthenia, drowsiness, headache, lack of libido. Contraindications for use: prolactinoma, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. The average price in pharmacies is 360 rubles for 10 tablets.

Diet

Drug treatment for high stomach acidity will not be effective unless the diet is adjusted. The purpose of the diet is to eliminate dyspeptic disorders and reduce the acid factor. To reduce the excitability of the stomach, secretion stimulants (alcohol, smoked foods, carbonated drinks, coffee, mushrooms, broths), as well as irritants of the mucous membrane (marinades, spicy, salty, hot, fatty foods, seasonings, spices) are excluded from the menu. The gentle regime includes split meals in small portions, which promotes rapid digestion of food.

Permitted and prohibited products

Diet with high acidity of gastric juice includes lean meat, vegetables without coarse fiber, and well-cooked cereals. Table of allowed products:

During treatment, you should not eat foods with connective tissue (veins, cartilage, skin), as they are not digested. Vegetables that irritate the stomach (onions, garlic, turnips, peas, beans) and highly extractive broths should be limited. Thick pasta, pearl barley, corn and barley cause an increase in the secretion of gastric juice, so it is also advisable to avoid them.

Sample menu

During the period of mild exacerbation, the diet is varied, since it is allowed to include almost all cereals, many vegetables, lean meat and fish. A sample menu for the day might look like this:

Treatment with folk remedies

You can get rid of heartburn and other symptoms of high acidity at home using improvised means. It should be remembered that in order to avoid the development of complications, any independent treatment should be agreed with the attending physician. The best folk recipes with high acidity:

• Chamomile. Brew 2 tsp. dry herbs in 250 ml of water, leave for a couple of hours, then strain. Take this dose half an hour before meals three times a day for 7-10 days.
• Baking soda. Stir in ½ tsp. in 200 ml warm water and drink it in one go. Use the product only for severe symptoms.
• Carrot juice. Drink 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed carrot juice in the morning on an empty stomach for 14 days.
• Flax seeds. Pour 1 tbsp of water into a glass. l. flaxseed, cook for 5 minutes. Infuse the mucous solution for 2 hours, then take 1 s. l. after meals 4 times a day until the condition improves.

Stomach acid is an essential component for the proper functioning of the digestive system. If this indicator does not exceed the norm, it is ensured reliable protection from infection of the gastrointestinal tract with pathogenic flora. If there is an imbalance, a noticeable failure occurs, fraught with general serious discord.

The aggressive environment characteristic of the organ that digests food is a required measure, without which viruses and bacteria that enter with food can easily carry out their “hostile” tasks. But even in this situation, the rule of the “golden” mean works: if the concentration of hydrochloric acid is excessive and it is not possible to neutralize it, there is hyperacidity, which requires control and correction.

Symptoms of high stomach acidity

The following signs indicate the development of a dangerous syndrome:

• Regular heartburn.
• An unpleasant burning sensation in the throat and chest.
• Presence of bitter belching, retching.
• Pain localized in the upper abdomen. As a rule, attacks that repeat over time are one of the symptoms of ulcerative lesions of the stomach or duodenum.
• Heaviness in the area of ​​the right hypochondrium.

Pain with increased acidity can be not only paroxysmal, but also aching.

Norm

The value characterizing the health of the digestive tract is determined by the pH value. If balance is maintained, the corresponding neutrality mark 7 is reached. In case of excessive secretion, an alkaline environment is established. The maximum pH value is 14.

From this video you will learn how to determine the acidity in the stomach yourself.

Causes

Signs of increased acidity appear under the influence of various internal and external factors:

• Eating disorder. Hyperacid syndrome is caused by regularly consumed coffee, alcohol, and smoked foods. A long break between meals or, conversely, frequent snacking also has a negative impact on the state of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Treatment with drugs that worsen the condition of the mucous membrane covering the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. Add to list dangerous means includes hormonal medications (Prednisolone, Dexamethasone), anti-inflammatory non-steroidal medications (Analgin, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac). They can not only increase acidity, but also provoke superficial gastritis that requires timely treatment.
• Prolonged nervous tension, constant stress, which is often important for a teenage child.
• Helicobacter pylori infection. At the moment, this reason is stated in most cases. Adapted to living in gastric juice, the microbe actively produces enzymes that enhance secretion and damage the mucous membrane of not only the stomach, but also the intestines.

It is necessary to understand why the pH increases if, according to the results preliminary examination And clinical symptoms persistent violation of acidity is confirmed.

Diagnostics

To differentiate an alkaline environment, erosion or gastric ulcer, special examinations are carried out:

• Intragastric or intragastric pH-metry. Measurements are taken in different areas of the gastrointestinal tract throughout the day. The procedure is carried out using acidogastrometers equipped with sensors and probes.
• Staining of the gastric wall. They practice the endoscopic method, performing gastroscopy with the introduction of dye. Color transitions indicate fluctuations in pH levels.
• Fractional probing with suction of acidic contents and its subsequent study in the laboratory.
• Application of ion exchange resins. If there are contraindications for probing, a reagent with pigment taken orally is prescribed. Acidity is determined based on the degree of coloration of urine.

The most informative method for suspected hyperacid gastritis is fibrogastroscopy. The advantage of this option is that two problems are solved simultaneously - the pH level is determined and an analysis is carried out for the presence of the Helicobacter bacteria.

Treatment of high acidity

They plan a set of measures, combining medications, folk remedies and diet.

Drugs

Increased stomach acidity is corrected with medications from the following groups:

To effectively treat the disorder based on a specific situation, the following are additionally prescribed:

• The drug Domperidone or its analogues (normalizes peristalsis and eliminates reverse bile reflux).
• Antibiotics (used to identify insidious bacteria).

Most medications can only be taken in a limited course for 8 days due to the indirect effect on hormonal levels. To enhance the effect at home, additional therapy with available natural medicines is planned.

Folk remedies

Herbs help cure pathology and effectively lower pH levels:

• St. John's wort and centaury. To prepare a decoction, pour two tablespoons of the mixture into 500 ml of boiling water, wrap well and leave to infuse. The volume obtained after straining is divided into 4 portions. You need to drink the product within 24 hours.
• A special collection based on the seeds of dill, St. John's wort, peppermint, and yarrow helps to get rid of hyperacid syndrome. The ingredients are taken in a ratio of 1:3:1:1, and a medicinal drink is prepared from 30 grams of the mixture, following the above recipe.
• Potato juice. It not only reduces aggressiveness, but also stops the inflammatory process. You should drink the self-prepared product strictly on an empty stomach three times a day, 3/4 cup. Then you need a 30-minute rest in a horizontal position. Eating is allowed no earlier than an hour later.
  They provide a ten-day course with a break of similar duration.
• Fig or fig tree. It is important that the fruits eaten are fully ripe.
• Ivan tea, which simultaneously provides antacid, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The herb is brewed in a thermos and consumed before meals, 50 ml.
• Freshly squeezed carrot juice, which is drunk on an empty stomach, gives good results.
• Liquorice root. Chewable tablets are suitable.
• Ginger tea. The drink is especially effective for nausea and vomiting.

As for soda, which has a known neutralizing property, it is used with caution due to the risk of developing alkalosis and disrupting the general acid-base balance body.

Diet

A properly formulated diet is the key to successful therapy for excess production of hydrochloric acid.

Permitted and prohibited products

In order not to further increase the already excessive pH level, a number of restrictions are adhered to:

• Rich, fatty soups are excluded from the menu.
• Avoid sorrel, radish, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and citrus fruits, including lemon.
• Berries and fruits are consumed if there is no pain.
• A healthy diet involves excluding hot spices and animal oils.
• The forbidden list is supplemented with sauces, marinades, black bread, and chocolate.
• It is undesirable to drink kefir and fermented baked milk.

To prevent acidity in the stomach from rising, consider the following rules:

• The first courses are prepared with the addition of lean fish and lean meat.
• Vegetable purees, rice, buckwheat, and oatmeal are useful.
• Do light omelette or cook a soft-boiled egg.
• Among vegetables, preference is given to cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, and rutabaga.
• The oils chosen are sunflower and olive.
• The diet is expanded with milk, low-fat cottage cheese, and bananas.

High acidity is an indication for fractional, calm nutrition; overeating and haste are unacceptable. Another point is that it is important to combine foods correctly, excluding combinations of high-protein and carbohydrate foods.

Mineral water

In order for the pH level to decrease, the drinking regime is organized by choosing green tea, dried fruit compote, berry or fruit jelly. Be sure to leave a gap between the liquid and the main meal. Additionally, they drink fresh or medicinal table mineral water with metal ions and bicarbonates. As a result, we get the following result:

• By binding hydrochloric acid, its amount is reduced, heartburn and nausea are eliminated.
• Metabolic processes improve, the blood is saturated with essential microelements. Due to this, immunity is increased and recovery is accelerated.
• The functioning of the gastric glands is normalized, and mucus that protects the walls is actively produced.
• Gastrointestinal motility improves, belching decreases, heaviness goes away.

Drink water an hour or two before meals, first removing carbon dioxide from it. This is done by lightly heating, achieving a barely warm state. The course of treatment lasts about 2–3 weeks. It is advisable to repeat the dose at least twice a year with the onset of autumn and spring, when the body’s immune defense is weakened.

Sample menu

The approximate daily diet is planned as follows:

• Breakfast - steamed cottage cheese with sour cream or semolina pudding and tea with milk or cream.
• Lunch – yogurt or curdled milk with cookies.
• Lunch – oatmeal soup or cauliflower-based puree first course, steamed meatballs, carrot soufflé. You can replace the meat with fish baked in foil with herbs. Finish the meal with compote.
• Afternoon snack – biscuits or cottage cheese with jam and tea.
• Dinner – vegetable side dish and rice cutlets or pasta with omelette, jelly.

Milk soups, vegetable, meat, and cottage cheese casseroles are also suitable for nutrition.

Increased acidity in pregnant women

The change in the aggressiveness of the environment in expectant mothers in the first trimester is due to serious hormonal changes; the gastrointestinal tract is also involved in the process. On later The increase in pH level is facilitated by an increase in the size of the uterus and its pressure on neighboring organs. As a rule, discomfort occurs immediately after eating. The type of products does not matter in this case.

If a pregnant woman is often bothered by heartburn, she should not try to correct the condition on her own. In such a situation, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will correctly make recommendations and select medications.

Therapy should begin with a diet and a strict ban on canned and pickled foods. Throughout the day, you should consume fennel oil, which helps protect the mucous membranes from irritation. You can add it to porridges and salads. For snacks, it is better to use nuts - hazelnuts or almonds, grain flakes, jelly gives a good effect. It is advisable to sleep and rest on your side.

Possible complications

With increased acidity, the stomach constantly suffers from an aggressive environment. This condition is intermediate and in the absence of corrective treatment, the development of serious complications in the form of ulcers and duodenitis is possible. Unpleasant consequences of the disorder include chronic esophagitis and gastritis.

If only increased acidity is diagnosed, this condition is not considered a disease. We are talking about a violation provoked by a number of factors that requires timely and adequate correction.