Antacids Health Dictionary

A light metallic element. It occurs in bauxite and other minerals and its compounds are found in low concentration in the body. Their function, if any, is unknown but they are believed to be harmful. Aluminium hydroxide is, however, a safe, slow-acting substance that is widely used in the treatment of indigestion, gastric ulcers (see STOMACH, DISEASES OF) and oesophagitis (see OESOPHAGUS, DISEASES OF), acting as an antacid (see ANTACIDS). Other ingested sources of aluminium include cooking utensils, kitchen foil and some cooking and food additives. Most aluminium is excreted; the rest is deposited in the brain, liver, lungs and thyroid gland. Prolonged use of aluminium-based antacids can cause loss of appetite, tiredness and weakness. It has been suggested that ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE is more common in areas with water which contains a high concentration of the element, but this issue is controversial.... aluminium

A condition in which a person infrequently passes hard FAECES (stools). Patients sometimes complain of straining, a feeling of incomplete evacuation of faeces, and abdominal or perianal discomfort. A healthy individual usually opens his or her bowels once daily but the frequency may vary, perhaps twice daily or once only every two or three days. Constipation is generally de?ned as fewer than three bowel openings a week. Healthy people may have occasional bouts of constipation, usually re?ecting a temporary change in diet or the result of taking drugs – for example, CODEINE – or any serious condition resulting in immobility, especially in elderly people.

Constipation is a chronic condition and must be distinguished from the potentially serious disorder, acute obstruction, which may have several causes (see under INTESTINE, DISEASES OF). There are several possible causes of constipation; those due to gastrointestinal disorders include:

Dietary: lack of ?bre; low ?uid consumption.

Structural: benign strictures (narrowing of gut); carcinoma of the COLON; DIVERTICULAR DISEASE.

Motility: poor bowel training when young; slow transit due to reduced muscle activity in the colon, occurring usually in women; IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS); HIRSCHSPRUNG’S DISEASE.

•Defaecation: anorectal disease such as ?ssures, HAEMORRHOIDS and CROHN’S DISEASE; impaction of faeces. Non-gastrointestinal disorders causing constipation include:

Drugs: opiates (preparations of OPIUM), iron supplements, ANTACIDS containing aluminium, ANTICHOLINERGIC drugs.

Metabolic and endocrine: DIABETES MELLITUS, pregnancy (see PREGNANCY AND LABOUR), hypothyroidism (see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF).

Neurological: cerebrovascular accidents (STROKE), MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS), PARKINSONISM, lesions in the SPINAL CORD. Persistent constipation for which there is no

obvious cause merits thorough investigation, and people who experience a change in bowel habits – for example, alternating constipation and diarrhoea – should also seek expert advice.

Treatment Most people with constipation will respond to a dietary supplement of ?bre, coupled, when appropriate, with an increase in ?uid intake. If this fails to work, judicious use of LAXATIVES for, say, a month is justi?ed. Should constipation persist, investigations on the advice of a general practitioner will probably be needed; any further treatment will depend on the outcome of the investigations in which a specialist will usually be involved. Successful treatment of the cause should then return the patient’s bowel habits to normal.... constipation

Many patients are on several prescribed drugs, and numerous medicines are available over the counter, so the potential for drug interaction is large. A drug may interact with another by inhibiting its action, potentiating its action, or by simple summation of effects.

The interaction may take place:

(1) Prior to absorption or administration – for example, antacids bind tetracycline in the gut and prevent absorption.

(2) By interfering with protein binding – one drug may displace another from binding sites on plasma proteins. The action of the displaced drug will be increased because more drug is now available; for example, anticoagulants are displaced by analgesics.

(3) During metabolism or excretion of the drug – some drugs increase or decrease the activity of liver enzymes which metabolise drugs, thus affecting their rate of destruction; for example, barbiturates, nicotine, and alcohol all activate hepatic enzymes. Altering the pH of urine will affect the excretion of drugs via the kidney.

(4) At the drug receptor – one drug may displace another at the receptor, affecting its e?cacy or duration of action.... drug interactions

A white powder with mild antacid properties (see ANTACIDS) and a prolonged action, it is used for treating peptic ulceration – commonly combined with quickly acting antacids. It has a mild laxative e?ect (see LAXATIVES).... magnesium trisilicate

A metal, the salts of which are white, crystalline, and very soluble. The ?uids of the body contain naturally a considerable quantity of sodium chloride.

Sodium carbonate, commonly known as soda or washing soda, has a powerful softening action upon the tissues.

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is used as an antacid (see ANTACIDS) in relieving indigestion associated with increased acidity of the gastric secretion.

The citrate and the acetate of sodium are used as DIURETICS.... sodium

Aerophagia. Swallowing mouthfuls of air. Usually associated with indigestion. Treatment. Carminatives, antacids.

Teas: any one: Aniseed, Balm, Caraway seeds, Cardamom seeds, Cinnamon bark, Fennel seeds, Dill seeds, Parsley. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; dose half-1 cup freely.

Ginger: powder, crystallised or tincture. Horseradish sauce. Few grains Cayenne pepper. Oil Peppermint: 1-2 drops in honey. ... air swallowing

Drugs taken to relieve the symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, oesophagitis, acid reflux, and peptic ulcer. Antacids usually contain compounds of magnesium or aluminium, which neutralize stomach acid. Some also contain alginates, which protect the lining of the oesophagus from stomach acid, or dimeticone, an antifoaming agent, which helps to relieve flatulence.

Aluminium may cause constipation and magnesium may cause diarrhoea; but these effects may be avoided if a preparation contains both ingredients.

Antacids interfere with the absorption of many drugs and should not be taken at the same time as other drugs.... antacid drugs

This disorder is related to gastric ulcer (see STOMACH, DISEASES OF), both being a form of chronic peptic ulcer. Although becoming less frequent in western communities, peptic ulcers still affect around 10 per cent of the UK population at some time. Duodenal ulcers are 10–15 times more common than gastric ulcers, and occur in people aged from 20 years onwards. The male to female ratio for duodenal ulcer varies between 4:1 and 2:1 in di?erent communities. Social class and blood groups are also in?uential, with duodenal ulcer being more common among the upper social classes, and those of blood group O.

Causes It is likely that there is some abrasion, or break, in the lining membrane (or mucosa) of the stomach and/or duodenum, and that it is gradually eroded and deepened by the acidic gastric juice. The bacterium helicobacter pylori is present in the antrum of the stomach of people with peptic ulcers; 15 per cent of people infected with the bacterium develop an ulcer, and the ulcers heal if H. pylori is eradicated. Thus, this organism has an important role in creating ulcers. Mental stress may possibly be a provocative factor. Smoking seems to accentuate, if not cause, duodenal ulcer, and the drinking of alcohol is probably harmful. The apparent association with a given blood group, and the fact that relatives of a patient with a peptic ulcer are unduly likely to develop such an ulcer, suggest that there is some constitutional factor.

Symptoms and signs Peptic ulcers may present in di?erent ways, but chronic, episodic pain lasting several months or years is most common. Occasionally, however, there may be an acute episode of bleeding or perforation, or obstruction of the gastric outlet, with little previous history. Most commonly there is pain of varying intensity in the middle or upper right part of the abdomen. It tends to occur 2–3 hours after a meal, most commonly at night, and is relieved by some food such as a glass of milk; untreated it may last up to an hour. Vomiting is unusual, but there is often tenderness and sti?ness (‘guarding’) of the abdominal muscles. Con?rmation of the diagnosis is made by radiological examination (‘barium meal’), the ulcer appearing as a niche on the ?lm, or by looking at the ulcer directly with an endoscope (see FIBREOPTIC ENDOSCOPY). Chief complications are perforation of the ulcer, leading to the vomiting of blood, or HAEMATEMESIS; or less severe bleeding from the ulcer, the blood passing down the gut, resulting in dark, tarry stools (see MELAENA).

Treatment of a perforation involves initial management of any complications, such as shock, haemorrhage, perforation, or gastric outlet obstruction, usually involving surgery and blood replacement. Medical treatment of a chronic ulcer should include regular meals, and the avoidance of fatty foods, strong tea or co?ee and alcohol. Patients should also stop smoking and try to reduce the stress in their lives. ANTACIDS may provide symptomatic relief. However, the mainstay of treatment involves four- to six-week courses with drugs such as CIMETIDINE and RANITIDINE. These are H2 RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS which heal peptic ulcers by reducing gastric-acid output. Of those relapsing after stopping this treatment, 60–95 per cent have infection with H. pylori. A combination of BISMUTH chelate, amoxycillin (see PENICILLIN; ANTIBIOTICS) and METRONIDAZOLE – ‘triple regime’ – should eliminate the infection: most physicians advise the triple regime as ?rst-choice treatment because it is more likely to eradicate Helicobacter and this, in turn, enhances healing of the ulcer or prevents recurrence. Surgery may be necessary if medical measures fail, but its use is much rarer than before e?ective medical treatments were developed.... duodenal ulcer

This is another name for indigestion. It describes a sensation of pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest following eating. There may be additional symptoms of heartburn, ?atulence, or nausea. There are many causes of dyspepsia including oesophagitis (see OESOPHAGUS, DISEASES OF), PEPTIC ULCER, gallstones (see under GALL-BLADDER, DISEASES OF), HIATUS HERNIA, malignancy of the stomach or oesophagus, and hepatic or pancreatic disease. Occasionally it may be psychological in origin. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but, if there is no speci?c pathology, avoidance of precipitating foods may be helpful. ANTACIDS may relieve discomfort and pain if taken when symptoms occur or are expected.... dyspepsia

Heartburn, with acid eructations and a sensation of distress in the stomach, chiefly associated with peptic ulcer (duodenal) or gastritis.

Symptoms: local tenderness and stomach gas. The terms hyperacidity and hyperchlorhydria refer to excessive production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Alternatives. For preparation and dosage see remedy entry.

Teas: Agrimony, Balm, Black Horehound, Caraway, Catnep, Celery seeds, Centuary, Chamomile, Dandelion root coffee, Fennel, Irish Moss, Liquorice root, Meadowsweet, Parsley, Quassia, Red Sage. Tablets/capsules. Dandelion, Papaya, Goldenseal. Dosage as on bottle.

Powders: equal parts, Slippery Elm, White Poplar, Meadowsweet. Mix. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) thrice daily and when necessary.

Tinctures. Formula: Dandelion 1; Meadowsweet 1; Nettles 1; Goldenseal quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water thrice daily before meals.

Practitioner prescription. Dec Jam Sarsae Co conc (BPC 1949) 1 fl oz (30ml); Liquid Extract Filipendula 1 fl oz (30ml); Liquid Extract Taraxacum off. Half a fl oz (15ml); Ess Menth Pip 0.05ml. Aqua to 8oz (240ml). Sig: one dessertspoon (8ml) in warm water before meals. (Barker).

Diet: lacto-vegetarian. Garlic. Celery. Dried raw oats. Regular raw food days. Low fat. Powdered kelp in place of salt. Paw paw fruit. Regulate bowels.

Note: In view of the finding of gastric carcinoid tumours in rodents subjected to long-term anti-secretory agents, caution needs to be exercised over the long-term use of antacids that powerfully suppress the gastric juices. ... acidity

n. a drug that neutralizes the hydrochloric acid secreted in the digestive juices of the stomach. Antacids, which include aluminium and magnesium compounds, are used to relieve pain and discomfort in disorders of the digestive system, including peptic ulcer.... antacid

A progressive brain deterioration first described by the German Neurologist, Alois Alzheimer in 1906. Dementia. Not an inevitable consequence of ageing. A disease in which cells of the brain undergo change, the outer layer (cerebral cortex) leading to tangles of nerve fibres due to reduced oxygen and blood supply to the brain.

The patient lives in an unreal world in which relatives have no sense of belonging. A loving gentle wife they once knew is no longer aware of their presence. Simple tasks, such as switching on an electrical appliance are fudged. There is distressing memory loss, inability to think and learn, speech disturbance – death of the mind. Damage by free radicals implicated.

Symptoms: Confusion, restlessness, tremor. Finally: loss of control of body functions and bone loss.

A striking similarity exists between the disease and aluminium toxicity. Aluminium causes the brain to become more permeable to that metal and other nerve-toxins. (Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans). High levels of aluminium are found concentrated in the neurofibrillary tangles of the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. Entry into the body is by processed foods, cookware, (pots and pans) and drugs (antacids).

“Reduction of aluminium levels from dietary and medicinal sources has led to a decline in the incidence of dementia.” (The Lancet, Nov 26, 1983).

“Those who smoke more than one packet of cigarettes a day are 4.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than non-smokers.” (Stuart Shalat, epidemiologist, Harvard University).

Researchers from the University of Washington, Seattle, USA, claim to have found a link between the disease and head injuries with damage to the blood/brain barrier.

Also said to be associated with Down’s syndrome, thyroid disease and immune dysfunction. Other contributory factors are believed to be exposure to mercury from dental amalgam fillings. Animal studies show Ginkgo to increase local blood flow of the brain and to improve peripheral circulation. Alternatives. Teas: Alfalfa, Agrimony, Lemon Balm, Basil, Chaparral, Ginkgo, Chamomile, Coriander (crushed seeds), Ginseng, Holy Thistle, Gotu Kola, Horsetail, Rosemary, Liquorice root (shredded), Red Clover flowers, Skullcap, Ladies Slipper.

Tea. Formula. Combine, equal parts: German Chamomile, Ginkgo, Lemon Balm. 1 heaped teaspoon to cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Equal parts: Black Cohosh, Blue Flag root, Hawthorn berries. 1 teaspoon in each cupful water; bring to boil and simmer 20 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.

Powders. Formula. Hawthorn 1; Ginkgo 1; Ginger half; Fringe Tree half. Add pinch Cayenne pepper. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Liquid extracts. Formula. Hawthorn 1; Ephedra half; Ginkgo 1. Dose: 30-60 drops, thrice daily, before meals.

Topical. Paint forehead and nape of neck with Tincture Arnica.

Diet: 2 day fluid-only fast once monthly for 6 months. Low fat, high fibre, lecithin. Lacto-vegetarian. Low salt.

Supplements. Vitamin B-complex, B6, B12, Folic acid, A, C, E, Zinc. Research has shown that elderly patients at high risk of developing dementia have lower levels of Vitamins A, E and the carotenes. Zinc and Vitamin B12 are both vital cofactors for brain enzymes.

Alzheimer’s Disease linked with zinc. Zinc is believed to halt cerebral damage. Senile plaques in the brain produce amyloid, damaging the blood-brain barrier. Toxic metals then cross into the brain, displacing zinc. This then produces abnormal tissue. (Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders, researchers, University of Geneva).

Japanese study. Combination of coenzyme Q10, Vitamin B6 and iron. Showed improved mental function. Abram Hoffer MD, PhD. Niacin 500mg tid, Vitamin C 500mg tid, Folic acid 5mg daily, Aspirin 300mg daily, Ginkgo herb 40mg daily. (International Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Feb 1994 p11)

Alzheimer’s Disease Society. 2nd Floor, Gordon House, 10 Greencoat Place, London SW1P 1PH, UK. Offers support to families and carers through membership. Practical help and information. Send SAE. ... alzheimer’s disease

An estimated 15 per cent of the female population suffers from this form of anaemia. A deficiency of nutritional iron is responsible for oxygen starvation of the blood due to insufficient haemoglobin. Number of red cells is reduced.

Aetiology: heavy menstrual loss, feeble constitution from hereditary weakness, poor diet, hidden or known blood loss from gastric ulcer, pregnancy, bleeding piles or insufficient food minerals: iron, copper, calcium, etc, chronic liver or kidney disease, worms, anorexia nervosa, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis. Symptoms. Tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness, palpitations, pale face and mucous membranes. White of eyes may be blue. Enlarged flabby tongue often bears impression of teeth marks. Hair lifeless, fingernails brittle and ridged. There may be angina, tinnitus and general reduced efficiency.

Treatment. The object is to achieve absorption of iron to raise normal haemoglobin levels and increase red cells. Echinacea has a reputation for regeneration of red cells. Herbs used with success: Echinacea, Gentian, Motherwort, Mugwort, Barberry, Hops, Nettles, Saw Palmetto, Chaparral, Red Clover, Dandelion.

Bitter herbs stimulate absorption of vital nutrients from the stomach, toning liver and pancreas, increasing the appetite; usually given half hour before meals. See: BITTERS.

Gentian. 1 teaspoon fine-cut chips to 2 cups cold water steeped 8 hours (overnight). Dose: Half-1 cup thrice daily before meals.

Tea. Formula. Combine: Agrimony 1; Barberry bark 1; Nettles 2; White Poplar bark half. Place 1oz (30g) in 1 pint (500ml) cold water and bring to boil. Simmer 10 minutes. Drink cold: Half-1 cup thrice daily, before meals.

Powders. Formula. Echinacea 2; Gentian 1; Kelp 1; pinch Red Pepper. Dose: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily, before meals.

Liquid extracts. Formula: Echinacea 1; Queen’s Delight 1; Ginseng 1; Ginger quarter. Dose: 30-60 drops in water, thrice daily, before meals.

Infusion Gentian Co Conc BP (1949). Dose: 30-60 drops.

Diet. Dandelion coffee, as desired. Molasses. Desiccated liver.

Floradix. A pre-digested iron preparation. Readily assimilable by the body. Compounded by Dr Otto Greither (Salus Haus). Iron is fed onto yeast which breaks down the metal and absorbs its cells. Other tonic ingredients include extracts of nettles, carrots, spinach, fennel, Vitamin C plus supplements;

Angelica root, Mallow, Horsetail, Yarrow, Juniper and Rosehips. Not chemically preserved.

Avoid chocolate, egg yolk, tea, coffee, wheat bran.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C (1g morning and evening). Vitamin B12, Folic acid 400mcg. Vitamin C is the most potent enhancer of iron absorption. Multivitamin containing iron.

Note: Iron absorption is decreased by antacids, tetracyclines, phosphates, phytates (phytic acid from excessive intake of wholewheat bread), and excessive calcium supplements. Lack of stomach hydrochloric acid impairs iron absorption, especially in the elderly. ... anaemia: iron deficiency

A burning sensation in the gullet, as felt behind the breastbone, caused by a laxity of the oesophago-gastric sphincter, with acid rising from the stomach. May be due to bending, tight clothing, hiatus hernia, acid dyspepsia or gastritis. Bitter acid taste in the mouth.

Alternatives. Most antacids relieve heartburn and gastric reflux in conditions such as acid dyspepsia, gastritis and hiatus hernia. Teas selected from Barberry, Black Horehound, Centuary, (Dr A. Vogel) Dandelion, Chamomile tea. (Charles Wesley) Marshmallow, Meadowsweet.

To give mucosal protection: Irish Moss, Iceland Moss, Slippery Elm. St John’s Wort. (Dr A. Vogel) Powders. Alternatives. (1) Meadowsweet 2; Galangal 1. (2) Equal parts: Dandelion root, Fennel. Doses: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. Alternatives. (1) Dandelion 1; Meadowsweet 2; Liquorice root half. (2) Meadowsweet 2; Black Horehound 1. Liquorice half. Dose: One 5ml teaspoon in water thrice daily before meals. Tablets/capsules. Sarsaparilla, St John’s Wort. Meadowsweet. Iceland Moss. Slippery Elm.

Aloe Vera juice. 1-2 tablespoons juice from crushed leaves.

Nervous stomach. German Chamomile tea.

From alcohol and tobacco habit. Liquid Extract Stone root: 15-60 drops, (or Tincture BPC (1934) 30- 120 drops) in water thrice daily.

For heartburn of pregnancy – see PREGNANCY. Diet. Dandelion coffee. See: THE HAY DIET.

Avoid bending and stooping, eat small regular meals. Avoid hot spicy foods.

Avoid wearing tight clothing, cut out smoking. If suffering is at night, prop up head end of mattress by 4-6”. ... heartburn

Spireae ulmaria.

Filipendula ulmaria L. German: Ma?desu?ss. French: Ulmaire. Spanish: Ulmaria. Italian: Ulmaria. Leaves and stems. Contains salicin. The herbalist’s bicarbonate of soda. Contains salicylic acid which has an aspirin (anti-thrombotic) effect on blood vessels.

Constituents: flavonoids, oil, phenolic glycosides.

Action: antacid, anti-rheumatic, stomachic, astringent, antiseptic (internal), diaphoretic, diuretic, hepatic, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, mild urinary analgesic, anti-coagulant.

“A calming influence in an overactive digestive system.” (Simon Mills)

Uses: effective symptomatic relief of indigestion and other upper gastro-intestinal conditions associated with flatulence and hyperacidity. Gastric ulcer, gastric reflux, liver disorder, summer diarrhoea in children, cystitis, rheumatism, foul breath. Red sandy deposits in the urine with an oily film on the surface. Arthrosis, chronic rheumatism, oedema, urinary stone, cellulitis.

Combines well with Goldenseal and Marshmallow for gastric ulcer. Balanced combination of antacids with anti-flatulent: Meadowsweet, Parsley and Black Horehound (equal parts as a tea).

Preparations: Average dose 2-6 grams dried herb or in infusion. Reduced dose for children and the elderly.

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup. Liquid Extract BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 2-6ml. Tincture BHC Vol 1: 1:5 in 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 2 to 4ml.

Powder, capsules: 250mg. 2 capsules thrice daily before meals. (Arkocaps) ... meadowsweet

Degeneration of nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord with reduced muscle activity. Disability comes without warning. Muscle wasting and weakness commences with hands and feet, rising upwards. It is believed that exposure to the polio virus in childhood increases the likelihood of developing MND. Bulbar palsy is one of the group with difficulties in talking and swallowing.

Symptoms. Slurred speech, muscle wastage, shortness of breath, difficult swallowing. The intellect is not affected. Bladder and bowel control are retained.

Treatment. There is no specific treatment. Black Cohosh gives added power to feeble nerve impulses. The husks of oats, Avena sativa, offers a strengthening nutrient containing tocopherol and protein for the debility. Ginkgo and Kola nuts are cerebral stimulants. Damiana (Curzon) has a tonic effect upon the central nervous system.

Tablet: Damiana, Kola, Saw Palmetto.

Tinctures. Combine – Ginkgo 3; Avena sativa 2; Damiana 1; Black Cohosh half. Dose: 2-4ml (30-60 drops), in water.

Evening Primrose oil: of value in rehabilitation of the patient.

Note: Treatment should be supervised by a neurologist whose training prepares him/her to recognise serious illness and to integrate herbal treatment safely into the treatment plan.

Diet. Gluten-free. Low animal fats, high unsaturated fats, low sugars: give preference to honey. Avoid beer, sweetened bottled fruit juices.

Supplements. To make good possible vitamin and mineral deficiencies; directed towards regeneration of wasted nerve cells. Multivitamin capsule/tablet containing the B group, but the Vitamin B12 (10mcg thrice daily) should be taken separately. Magnesium relieves chronic nervous fatigue. Zinc contributes to motor neurone health. Amino acids, including L-leucine to restore the glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) to slow down degeneration.

Cases have been known to evolve from physical injury or trauma, such as falling downstairs, in which case the use of the homoeopathic remedy Arnica might be indicated.

Aluminium. Aluminium is suspect in playing an etiological role in the onset of MND. As a precautionary measure aluminium anti-perspirants, antacids and cooking vessels are best avoided.

Supportives. Deep-breathing exercises. A range of communication aids are available under the National Health Service, England.

Information. Motor Neurone Disease Association, PO Box 246, Northampton NN1 2PR, UK. ... motor neurone disease (mnd)

An abnormal narrowing of the (lower) gullet.

Causes: injury, scarring by chemical medicines, drugs swallowed with insufficient water, antacids for heartburn, piping-hot tea. It is important to exclude oesophageal cancer.

Those with ‘gullet-reflex’ such as the elderly, are at risk. A relationship exists between toothlessness and this condition. Eating of soft fibreless foods does not expand the tube down which food passes. Alternatives. Horsetail, Irish Moss. Echinacea. Marshmallow. Goldenseal. Sarsaparilla. Calendula (Marigold), Chamomile.

Tea. Formula – equal parts, Horsetail, Chamomile, Marshmallow. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Echinacea, Goldenseal, Sarsaparilla, Chamomile.

Formula. Irish Moss 1; Comfrey 1; Calendula half; Goldenseal quarter. Dose – Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 2-3 teaspoons. Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon) in water before meals.

Diet. High fibre. Raw carrots with prolonged mastication. Hot drinks are potentially damaging. ... oesophageal stricture

“Brittle bones”. The Silent Epidemic. Weakness and softness of the bones due to wastage of minerals, chiefly calcium. Crippling, painful, deforming. ‘Bone-thinning’ leads to hundreds of thousands of crush and spontaneous fractures every year. Vertebra of the spine may collapse with loss of height and stooping. Sufferers show body levels of zinc about 25 per cent lower than normal. May run in families.

Affects women more than men by 10:1 especially after menopause, whether this is natural or due to destruction or removal of ovaries in early adult life.

By means of a calcium-rich diet after 35 years it is a preventable disease. Like so many degenerative diseases a common cause is widespread consumptions of refined, processed, chemicalised foods. It is possible that dental caries is in reality osteoporosis.

In men, alcohol is the chief cause. It wreaks its greatest havoc in women 10-15 years after the menopause. Increased calcium will not restore tissue already lost by wasting. Emphasis is therefore on prevention. It is estimated that a quarter of women over 50 in the West suffer bone loss after the menopause when reduced oestrogen speeds loss of calcium with possible bone damage to wrist, spine and especially hip. The chances of such fractures in women reaching seventy are one in two.

Vitamin D deficiency predisposes, as also does over-prescription of thyroxine for hypothyroid cases. Fat-free diets can break bones.

In menopausal women, increased bone loss is associated with disorders of the ovaries, which organs should receive treatment. Specially at risk are anorexic women with absence of periods. Secondary causes: hyperthyroidism, long-term use of steroids, liver disease, drugs (Tamoxifen, Antacids).

Common fractures are those of hips, spine and wrist. Wrist bone mineral content and grip strength are related. Squeezing a tennis ball hard three times each morning and evening reduces risk of fractures of the wrist.

Drinking of Lemon juice contributes to brittle bones. The habit of daily drinking of the juice causes enamel of teeth to crumble and the removal of calcium from the bones.

Cod Liver oil (chief of the iodised oils) reaches and nourishes cartilage, imparting increased elasticity which prevents degeneration.

Coffee. Two or more cups of coffee a day significantly reduces bone mineral density in women, but drinking milk each day can counter it.

Alternatives. Alfalfa, Black Cohosh, Chamomile, Clivers, Fennel, Dong quai, Fenugreek, Liquorice, Meadowsweet, Mullein, Pimpernel, Helonias, Plantain, Rest Harrow, Shepherd’s Purse, Silverweed, Toadflax, Unicorn root. Nettle tea.

Tea. Equal parts. Alfalfa, Comfrey leaves, Nettles. Mix. 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 5- 15 minutes; 1 cup thrice daily.

Decoction. Equal parts: Comfrey root, Irish Moss (for minerals), Horsetail. Mix. 3 heaped teaspoons to 1 pint (500ml) water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: 1 cup thrice daily.

Tablets/capsules. Bamboo gum, Helonias, Iceland Moss, Irish Moss for minerals, Kelp, Prickly Ash. Formula. Horsetail 2; Alfalfa 2; Helonias 1. Mix. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Action is enhanced by taking in a cup of Fenugreek tea.

Comfrey decoction. 1 heaped teaspoon to cup water gently simmered 5 minutes. Strain when cold. Dose: 1 cup, to which is added 10 drops Tincture Helonias, morning and evening. Fenugreek seeds may be used as an alternative to Comfrey root. Comfrey and Fenugreek are osteo-protectives. For this condition the potential benefit of Comfrey outweighs possible risk.

Propolis. Regeneration of bone tissue.

Dr John Christopher. Mix powders: Horsetail 6, de-husked Oats 3; Comfrey root 4; Lobelia 4. Dose: quarter to half a teaspoon 2-3 times daily.

Diet. Fresh raw fruit and green vegetables. Consumption of raw bran (which contains calcium-binding phytic acid) and wholemeal bread should be suspended until recovery is advanced. Natural spring water. Fish and fish oils. Reject high salt intake which aggravates bone loss and places the skeleton at risk by creating increasing loss of calcium and phosphorus through the kidneys. Avoid soft drinks, alcohol. Heavy meat meals inhibit calcium metabolism. Incidence of the disease is lower in vegetarians. High protein. Supplements. Daily. Vitamin A, Vitamin B12 (50mcg); Vitamin C (500mg); Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Folic acid 200mcg; Vitamin B6 (50mg); Calcium citrate 1g; Magnesium citrate 500mg. Boron and Vitamin D. Zinc 15mg.

Calcium helps reduce risk of fracture particularly in menopausal women who may increase their daily intake to 800mg – Calcium citrate malate being more effective than the carbonate. Dried skimmed milk can supply up to 60 per cent of the recommended daily amount of Calcium.

Stop smoking.

Information. National Osteoporosis Society, PO Box 10, Radstock, Bath BA3 3YB, UK. Send SAE. ... osteoporosis

A group of antibiotic drugs, often called antibacterials, that are used to treat bacterial infections. Quinolone drugs are derived from chemicals, rather than living organisms. Examples include norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and ofloxacin.

Quinolones are used in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, including urinary tract infections, acute diarrhoeal diseases (such as that caused by salmonella infections), and enteric fever. Their absorption is reduced by antacids containing magnesium and aluminium.

Quinolones should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy, during pregnancy and breast-feeding, and in children and adolescents. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, sleep disorders, dizziness, rash, and blood disorders.... quinolone drugs

A group of drugs that are used to treat or prevent peptic ulcers. The eradication of HELICOBACTER PYLORI infection by treatment with antibiotic drugs and a drug to reduce acid secretion is now the preferred treatment for peptic ulceration.

Ulcer-healing drugs work in several ways. H-receptor antagonists function by blocking the effects of histamine, an action that reduces acid secretion in the stomach, thereby promoting the healing of ulcers. Taking antacid drugs regularly may be effective in healing duodenal ulcers because the drugs neutralize excess acid. Omeprazole and misoprostol work by reducing acid secretion. Other ulcer-healing drugs, such as sucralfate, are believed to form a protective barrier over the ulcer, allowing healing of the underlying tissues to take place.

The choice of ulcer-healing drug depends on the length of time symptoms have been present and the appearance of the ulcer during endoscopy.

In many cases of recent onset, a course of acidblocking drugs or antacids will give rapid relief.

Recurrent ulcers usually require treatment with antibiotic drugs.... ulcer-healing drugs

n. inflammation of the oesophagus (gullet). Frequent regurgitation of acid and peptic juices from the stomach causes reflux oesophagitis, the commonest form, which may be associated with a hiatus *hernia. The main symptoms are heartburn, acid regurgitation, *odynophagia, and sometimes difficulty in swallowing (*dysphagia). Complications include bleeding, *stricture formation, and *Barrett’s oesophagus. It is treated with antacids and by maintaining an upright position, using more pillows at night, eating the evening meal earlier in the day, weight loss, and dietary restraint. In severe cases *fundoplication surgery may be required. Corrosive oesophagitis is caused by the ingestion of caustic acid or alkali. It is often severe and may lead to perforation of the oesophagus and extensive stricture formation. Immediate treatment includes food avoidance and antibiotics; later, stricture dilatation is often needed. Infective oesophagitis is most commonly due to a fungus (Candida) infection in debilitated or immunocompromised patients, especially those being treated with antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressant drugs, but is occasionally due to viruses (such as cytomegalovirus or herpesvirus). Eosinophilic oesophagitis is a poorly understood condition characterized by infiltration of the oesophageal lining by excess *eosinophils. Autoimmune disease and food allergy are two commonly proposed causes. Treatment is directed towards exclusion of allergens and oral or inhaled steroids.... oesophagitis