Acid stuff

The things we take for occasional acid indigestion--are they simply for comfort, or are they also therapeutic?  I sometimes find myself not taking something because I figure it will go away on its own. But then I wonder if I'm supposed to take something to block the acid for my stomach's sake, not just my own comfort...?

I'm not sure about the stomach..but I do know, preventing the acid from reaching your throat is pretty important.  Enough exposure of acid on your throat can cause changes in the lining and then you can have..after a long time..throat cancer.  So..comfort is important, but prevention is too.  IMO that is. :)

Thanks. The acid has never backed up on me, but I can see that would be an issue.

Since you didn't mention what exactly you are taking, here's what I think is the answer:

1. Drugs for occasional acid indigestion - - Tums, Rolaids, etc, are for comfort and are intended to be taken "as needed".

2. Drugs for the treatment of reflux (of which heartburn is a sympton) -- Prilosec, Nexium, protonix, etc  are therapeutic and are to be taken every day -- they do not work immediately (usually takes a few days for relief) and they are intended to be an ongoing course of treatment for reflux.

Hope this helps.