Latest news with #GERD
Health Line
7 hours ago
- Health
- Health Line
Does Medicare Cover Famotidine?
Famotidine is a generic drug that doctors prescribe to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid production, such as stomach ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It's available in over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription strengths, and companies may sell it under the brand names Pepcid AC or Zantac 360. Medicare Part D drug plans generally cover prescription famotidine, though there may be some variation based on the specific plan. Original Medicare doesn't cover OTC famotidine. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may include OTC benefits that members can use toward this medication. Part D coverage for famotidine Medicare-approved private insurance companies sell Part D prescription drug plans. If you have Original Medicare, you can buy a stand-alone Part D plan, whereas people with Medicare Advantage plans often have Part D plans in their coverage. Each plan has a formulary. This is a list of medications that the plan covers. Part D plans generally include prescription famotidine in their formularies. However, since specifics vary by insurance carrier, plan, and location, there's no guarantee that all plans include coverage for famotidine. To learn whether your Medicare drug plan includes coverage for famotidine, consult your plan details or a representative. Over-the-counter famotidine and Medicare Many Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for OTC products as part of their additional benefits. If your Medicare Advantage plan includes OTC benefits, you can likely use them to buy famotidine. Generally, with OTC benefits, members can get a benefits card that works like a debit card. The plan adds funds to the card at regular intervals, and you can use it at participating retailers to buy eligible products. The specific retailer and product lists may depend on the plan, but Walgreens, for example, offers various famotidine products in different strengths and quantities through its OTC benefits program. Famotidine cost with Medicare The cost of famotidine may depend on its strength, quantity, form, and whether it's a generic or brand-name product. Formularies place covered drugs into tiers. These tiers typically correspond with a drug's cost, with lower tier drugs often carrying lower copayments or coinsurance. A plan's formulary may cover multiple versions of famotidine. If so, the oral tablet form is likely to be a tier 1 drug, whereas the oral suspension may be a tier 4 drug. However, this may not be the case for all plans that cover famotidine.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Gastroenterologist reveals what affects digestion more than junk food: ‘Binge watching TV shows'
When you're focused on your screen, you're not paying attention to your food or your body's hunger and fullness cues. You might not even notice how much you're eating or what you're eating. Mindless eating can lead to consuming more calories than you need, potentially contributing to weight gain. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Prasad Bhate, HOD and consultant, gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune explained how this habit affects the digestive system. Also read | Nutritionist explains how eating while working can ruin gut health By being mindful of your binge-watching habits and taking steps to mitigate potential negative effects, you can enjoy your favorite shows while supporting your digestive health. (Freepik) He said, 'When talking about digestive health, people often bring up diet, particularly the use of fried and processed food. The silent disruptor of contemporary life, however, is known as binge-watching. What was formerly thought to be a harmless hobby has been shown to have a far more significant effect on a person's digestive system than the occasional junk food splurge.' Binge-watching involves extended periods of sitting, which can slow down digestion and lead to discomfort. According to Dr Bhate, binge-watching affects the gut-brain axis, particularly when combined with extended periods of inactivity. He said, 'This brain-digestive tract communication mechanism is influenced by a person's general lifestyle choices. Excessive screen time, especially when coupled with binge-watching and other sedentary behaviours, alters the natural rhythm of digestion on a fundamental level. The wave-like movement of the digestive tract's contracting muscles, known as peristalsis, considerably slows down.' How is it linked to digestive health? Dr Bhate added that this slowed-down process can lead to delayed stomach emptying, acid reflux, bloating, and constipation. 'A poor digestive experience or overeating can arise from our inability to pay attention to how effectively we are chewing our food and how full we feel. Also, eating in front of a screen decreases the production of saliva and enzymes necessary for the appropriate breakdown and absorption of nutrients,' he said. He shared that patients generally complained of regular gas, irregular bowel movements, and even indications of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and there were no significant food triggers for the symptoms that any patient experienced. Dr Bhate said, 'The only thing that all of the cases I followed up on had in common was extended screen time, especially late-night screen time.' A digital curfew ought to be implemented, especially around mealtimes and after meals. (Freepik) Sedentary behaviour must be avoided Dr Bhate warned that if chronic digestive blockage is not resolved, 'it can worsen and lead to peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD'). 'When poor sitting and slouched posture are combined with the prolonged immobility of couch surfing or binge-watching TV shows, the strain on abdominal organs might result in problems like intestinal motility difficulties or a hiatal hernia,' he said. According to Dr Bhate, priority should be given to the treatment that involves a change in behaviour: 'A digital curfew ought to be implemented, especially around mealtimes and after meals. Also, it's helpful to relight the 'workout switch' by finding a short stroll to do afterward. Ten to fifteen minutes might be sufficient to stimulate the stomach motility. Acid reducers or prokinetic drugs could be helpful for persistent dyspepsia. Some digestive enzyme supplements may be helpful if your own enzyme-producing capacity is hampered by inactivity.' What should you do to stay safe? If symptoms are chronic or getting worse, Dr Bhate said a workup involving procedures such as upper GI endoscopy, colonoscopy, and/or motility testing might be suggested for additional assessment of the underlying disease. He added that surgical procedures like fundoplication may be considered if GERD is severe and accompanied by symptoms like Barrett's esophagus or esophageal stricture. 'Diet and regular routines are essential for a healthy gut. Virtually constant screen time throughout the day, particularly during meals, interferes with the gut's natural processes far more than is generally understood. The best options for a healthy gut are prevention, moderation awareness, and effective early treatment options before the minor disruptions are allowed to develop into a more serious condition,' Dr Bhate said. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Boost your metabolism while you sleep? Experts break down which bedtime foods might actually work
Despite social media claims, experts refute the idea of eating before bed to boost metabolism or aid weight loss. Research suggests late-night eating can disrupt sleep, increase acid reflux, and hinder weight management efforts. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep remain the proven strategies for a healthy metabolism, with exceptions for individuals with type 1 diabetes. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Eating before bed doesn't boost metabolism How eating late can harm your sleep Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads FAQs With social media rife with influencers claiming certain comestibles before bed can be good, scientists continue to rebuke the opinion, maintaining that it's almost never a good idea to indulge in eateries before one goes to on social media claim that eating foods like protein before bed can "boost your metabolism" and help with fast weight loss. The idea sounds like old diet myths from magazines, just with a new twist, as per the Dietitian Jamie Nadeau says we don't have strong proof that these foods actually boost metabolism in your sleep. Some small research studies do say that having protein before bed might help with metabolism and muscle recovery from workouts, according to the report by USA most experts say there's more research showing that eating right before bed is not good for your health. Other foods like hot peppers, caffeine, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can temporarily raise metabolism, according to the Nadeau clearly says none of these foods are known to raise metabolism while you're sleeping. Instead, she says what really helps metabolism is building muscle, being active, sleeping well, and eating a healthy, balanced diet . So eating before bed doesn't just fail to boost metabolism—it can actually make it harder to lose weight, as stated by a USA Today says eating near bedtime can increase your chances of getting GERD acid reflux. GERD happens when the valve called the esophageal sphincter that normally keeps food and acid in your stomach relaxes. If you lie down too soon after eating, gravity can't help keep food in your stomach, so acid comes back up, as stated by acid coming back up can cause heartburn and disturb your sleep. People who wear smartwatches or smart rings might see lower sleep scores if they eat late. A study from the U.S. Census Bureau data 2003–2018 found that people who eat 30–60 minutes before bed wake up more during the night, as per the report by USA more they ate close to bedtime, the more disturbed their sleep was. To sleep better and avoid stomach problems, the Cleveland Clinic says you should stop eating 2–3 hours before going to bed. But there people with type 1 diabetes can eat before people with type 1 diabetes need a snack before bed to stop their blood sugar from getting too low during the night. But if this happens a lot, they should talk to their doctor to change their treatment. So, if you were hoping for some magic food that melts fat while you sleep—sorry, it doesn't exist, according to the report USA say you should focus on things that are proven to work, like eating a balanced diet and staying active. 'There are no quick fixes,' Nadeau says. The best advice is still to eat fruits, veggies, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, and move your body, as per experts say you can't boost metabolism while you sleep by eating certain foods. Long-term healthy habits work small studies say protein might help with recovery, but there's no strong proof it boosts metabolism during sleep.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The nine acid reflux foods to avoid – and two that soothe heartburn
Acid reflux can happen to everyone from time to time. The burning feeling – also known as heartburn – is caused when stomach acid slides back up the oesophagus, where it can burn the lining of the throat and cause an unpleasant feeling in the chest and mouth. 'We're normally protected from that by a muscle at the lower end of the oesophagus called the lower oesophageal sphincter,' says Dr Sean Preston, a consultant gastroenterologist at Barts Health and London Digestive Centre. 'But if that relaxes, you get stomach acid coming back up, which causes a burning sensation.' While acid reflux is an occasional and normal occurrence for most people, more frequent bouts can lead to a diagnosis of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, or GORD. So, how can you tell when your acid reflux is serious? And which foods can help soothe or worsen your heartburn? What is GERD? When to see a doctor Foods that cause acid reflux Two foods that can help How to prevent acid reflux Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, or GORD (known as GERD in the United States), is a chronic condition. It's more commonly diagnosed in people who are older, have a higher BMI, smoke, or do less physical activity at work. 'Whether you should worry about it depends on how long that acid reflux has been happening for,' explains Dr Preston. 'If it's a young, otherwise healthy patient and it's been happening a couple of times a week for a few weeks, then I'd treat them with antacids and over-the-counter remedies. If they were older and it was happening over a longer period of time, I'd wonder why it wasn't responding to those simple treatments, and have a look down there with my gastroscope.' Those suffering with a GERD stomach have a relaxed lower oesophageal sphincter, meaning the stomach acid can travel back up the oesophagus and cause heart burn. Untreated GORD can in some cases cause damage to the oesophagus, which can lead to more serious medical conditions. 'When the cells start to change in the lower oesophagus to adapt to a constantly acidic environment, that's called Barrett's Oesophagus which is a pre-cancerous condition [an issue which could become cancerous] and that's when you need to have regular gastroscopies to make sure those cellular changes don't progress,' says Dr Preston. Modern research has also linked GORD to anxiety disorder. One 2018 study speculated that anxiety may relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, cause muscle tension, and increase stomach acid production, all of which would contribute to increased acid reflux. Megan Hallet, a registered nutritionist for hormone tracking app, Hormona, says you should see a doctor: 'If it gets in the way of your day to day life. For example, it makes eating or working difficult; if you have difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing, consult your doctor as soon as possible. If there you're undergoing treatment but symptoms get worse, see your doctor, or if you have had unexplained weight loss (meaning that you haven't changed your diet or exercise).' While it is uncomfortable, acid reflux is rarely life-threatening and can be treated with antacids – medicines which neutralise the stomach acid. However, if you're prone to acid reflux, it's also worth avoiding the foods that are well known to trigger it. Bad news for anyone who enjoys a full English with plenty of bacon and sausages. Fatty acids – which are loaded into both the red meat itself and the way it is cooked – prolong the time it stays in your stomach, making it more likely to cause acid reflux than a lower fat meal. 'A fatty meal also stimulates production of a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK) which acts directly on the lower oesophageal sphincter to relax it and allows the acid to go back into the oesophagus, so a meaty meal is a bit of a double whammy,' says Dr Preston. Full English breakfasts aside, we tend to eat these richer, fattier, meat-based meals in the evenings when we're more likely to be lounging on the sofa afterwards or getting into bed – a perfect storm for a bout of acid reflux. 'When you're lying down, you haven't got gravity helping send the stomach acid downwards, which makes it a bit more likely to rise up to your oesophagus,' explains Dr Preston. 'Avoid eating or drinking for three hours before going to bed.' As with meat, the fat content of dairy food will also keep it in the stomach longer, potentially allowing more time for the stomach acid to rise. 'Dairy also features a carbohydrate called lactose,' says Dr Preston. 'A lot of people have some intolerance to lactose, so you're not breaking down those molecules and they're not being absorbed. That results in bloating and discomfort so you'll have indigestion symptoms. That may well make you notice the acid reflux a bit more readily.' If you've ever found it difficult to walk straight after a few too many drinks, you'll know all about how alcohol affects muscle coordination. The oesophageal sphincter is one such muscle and alcohol causes it to relax in the same way, which allows the acid to rise up the oesophagus. 'One of the worst alcohol options for heartburn is champagne or other carbonated drinks,' says Dr Preston. 'The bubbles will create gas in your stomach, which forces the acid upwards. Combined with the dilation of the oesophageal sphincter, you end up with the recipe for bad acid reflux.' In much the same way as dairy products containing lactose contribute to bloating, sugar does too. 'It doesn't actively cause the acid reflux, but it does make it a lot more obvious,' says Dr Preston. 'If you add in the carbonation of some of these drinks, it can make those heartburn symptoms much more apparent.' According to Dr Preston, spicy foods are one of the more 'idiosyncratic' causes of acid reflux. 'Some people can get away with eating a lot of spicy food, while others have a tiny bit of curry and end up in a lot of trouble,' he says. In particularly spicy dishes, including things made with chilli, you'll find a chemical called capsaicin. 'In the same way as fat, capsaicin delays gastric emptying which just allows more time for the stomach acid to rise up the oesophagus,' says Dr Preston. The other issue with spicy food is that if you've already had some damage to your oesophagus from previous incidences of acid reflux, 'the direct effect of spicy or acidic food will cause irritation to the lining of the oesophagus,' adds Dr Preston. Again, this one tends to make things worse if your oesophagus is already inflamed. 'If you have non-erosive acid reflux, citrus and other acidic foods are usually tolerated, but if you have erosive acid reflux, it's pouring acid on an open wound,' explains Dr Preston. In much the same way as alcohol, caffeine has a direct effect on the oesophageal sphincter. 'When caffeine is absorbed into the bloodstream, it acts on the muscle and relaxes it,' says Dr Preston. 'The muscle is like a clenched fist in its resting state to prevent acid coming back. If you were you drink a double espresso, that would relax, allowing acid to come up from the stomach into the oesophagus, so it'd be no longer acting as a tight sphincter.' You'd also be wise to avoid the hot chocolate (or any chocolate at all) as this contains a chemical called methylxanthine which will also relax that sphincter. 'Any fats will delay gastric emptying, but some affect people more than others,' says Dr Preston. 'Trans fats, which tend to be found in processed foods, might affect you, while saturated fats from dairy products don't. Some people can tolerate some fats and not others. Some patients with acid reflux can tolerate fats, some can't. There are a lot of nuances in it, but in general terms, patients with acid reflux should avoid fatty food.' While it is a popular remedy for digestive issues including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), to help relax the muscles in the stomach, peppermint may also exacerbate acid reflux. One of the ways that peppermint can help is by relaxing certain muscles, but this isn't targeted – a substance that relaxes one muscle could relax all of them, including the vital clenched sphincter that prevents acid reflux. 'In spite of the dairy content, some people may see a benefit in eating milk or yogurt if they're having acid reflux,' says Dr Preston. 'They provide a cooling buffer which will neutralise the acid coming back.' 'You can also chew a plant called slippery elm, which contains mucilage,' adds Dr Preston. 'This is a gel-like substance which helps coat and protect the oesophageal lining.' 'I see clients with so many different triggers for acid reflux,' says Hallett. 'The first suggestion I would make is to create a food diary. It might be something very specific to you. The digestive system goes all the way from your mouth to your anus, and if there's a problem with anything along the way, be it in your stomach, or the gut, things can get backed up and you end up with acid reflux.' Mindful eating is also key to banishing acid reflux, Hallett explains. 'Eat slowly, put the phone away and don't watch television while you are having meals. 'Chew every single bite and don't eat on the go. That will avoid air bubbles getting into your stomach, allowing your stomach to process things more fully so it doesn't get overinflated. Some might want to have smaller meals, more often, rather than eating large meals which lead to an overfilled stomach.' Dr Preston has one more left-field option that could help people whose evenings are being spoiled by acid reflux when they lie down – a position that makes it easier for stomach acid to rise up. 'Stick a couple of bricks under the head of the bed,' says Dr Preston. 'This allows you to use gravity as a method of taking the stomach acid down into the small intestine, rather than the oesophagus.' By Megan Hallett, a woman's health nutritionist It depends on the individuals triggers – but the type of bread and what you pair with it may have an impact too. For example, if you're triggered by white bread because of the sugars, or white bread with lots of butter or fats such as cheese, the sugar and fat may be the issue for someone. Swapping to whole grain and reducing the fat content may help. If not, forgo the bread completely and observe any change in symptoms to understand if it is a personal trigger. There aren't many evidence-based foods that neutralise stomach acid in the same way as antiacids. But there are foods that can help support digestion and coat the oesophageal lining to reduce irritation. High-fibre foods, such as bananas, apples and wholegrains, may help to move food through the system, while hydrating foods – melon, cucumber, and lettuce –may provide a cooling effect that helps to soothe. Ginger tea is also anti-inflammatory, and eases irritation in the digestive tract. Milk and dairy may be a trigger for some, for others it may provide relief and cooling. Yes, for most people, they should be fine. But if you are sensitive to dairy or fats, avoid cooking your eggs with lots of butter or cream, as these may relax the lower oesophageal sphincter which could allow acid to flow up. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. 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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
More than acid reflux? Doctor says how to spot hiatus hernia and how to treat
If you frequently get uncomfortable heartburn or feel very full after eating meals and are blaming it on your food, you may be in the dark. Bloating, burning sensation in the chest and abdomen may be common signs of acidity. But at times, it can also be from underlying issues. One of them is hiatus hernia. Hiatus hernia often presents with symptoms that resemble common, everyday gut issues. Dr Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon at MetaHeal - Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Centre, Mumbai, shared how the condition affects people over 50. Burning sensation in chest with a nagging feeling like something is stuck in throat is acid reflux, which is a common sign of hiatus hernia.(Shutterstock) Explaining the prevalence and the contributing factors, she said, "55 to 60% individuals above the age of 50 years may be suffering from a hiatus hernia. Out of these 9 to 10% are symptomatic. Hiatus hernia can be congenital or acquired. Conditions that increase the pressure in the abdomen are contributing factors are obesity, pregnancy, chronic constipation, COPD, etc. Other factors such as trauma, previous surgeries and genetics can also play a role in its development. The main reason is muscular weakness. Breaking down what actually happens inside the body, Dr Aparna explained what happens in the gut during hiatus hernia. It often goes unnoticed as the signs are similar to everyday gut issues like acid reflux or heartburn. She shared,'In a hiatus hernia, the upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragmatic opening into the chest, compromising the muscular valve at the lower end of the food-pipe. This loosening and relaxation of the valve may allow contents and acid from the stomach to reflux into the food pipe, leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Small hiatal hernias are often asymptomatic and are usually treated with medications. Large hiatal hernias usually require surgery in the form of a laparoscopic fundoplication. Most small hiatus hernias don't have any signs and symptoms when they are small.' Dr Aparna shared a guide, covering the essential aspects of hiatal hernia, from signs and symptoms to treatments: Signs of a larger hiatal hernia Abdominal pain is one of the signs of a larger hiatal hernia.(Shutterstock) Belching, vomiting Heartburn and acid reflux Abdominal or chest pain Difficulty in swallowing Feeling very full, especially after meals Passing black stools or vomiting blood, which at times is an indication of gastrointestinal bleeding Change in voice How to prevent and treat Lifestyle modification is the first line of treatment. Since most hiatal hernia symptoms stem from acid reflux, dietary modifications can help significantly. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large ones, avoiding heavy meals or snacks close to bedtime, quitting smoking are all simple but effective measures. Patients are also advised to avoid lying down or bending over soon after meals to prevent heartburn. Medications play an important role in managing symptoms of hiatal hernia, especially those related to acid reflux. Antacids are commonly used to neutralise stomach acid, while H2-receptor blockers help reduce acid production. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are another effective option, as they block acid production completely, giving the food pipe time to heal. When surgery may be needed Surgical repair is needed when the patients are unable to stop medical treatment, if there is no relief despite medical management. When the patient develops complications like oesophageal ulcers, reflux in the windpipe, Barrett's oesophagus, etc. Laparoscopic fundoplication is a commonly performed minimally invasive surgery in such cases, which leads to symptom relief and also prevents future complications. A fundoplication involves bringing back the herniated contents from the chest into the stomach, tightening the loose valve and creating a wrap of the stomach. ALSO READ: IBS vs IBD: Gastroenterologist shares the main differences between the two common gut conditions Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!. Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
