Antacids
Acid- Base Reactions within stomach neutralizers
What exactly are antacids?
Antacids either directly neutralize acidity, increasing the pH, or reversibly reduce or block the secretion of acid by gastric cells to reduce acidity in the stomach. When gastric hydrochloric acid reaches the nerves in the gastrointestinal mucosa, they signal pain to the central nervous system. This happens when these nerves are exposed. In addition to the reduction of gastric acidity, antacids also alter the profile of prostaglandins produced by gastroduodenal mucosa and this may promote mucosal healing and be related to its therapeutic effect.
What leads people to using Antacids?
Heartburn. Also called acid indigestion, heartburn is a burning pain or discomfort that can move up from your stomach to the middle of your abdomen and chest. The pain can also move into your throat. Despite its name, heartburn doesn't affect your heart.
- 25 million adults suffer from heartburn on a daily basis.
- Experts estimate that 40% of adults experience heartburn monthly.
Regurgitation. Another common symptom of acid reflux is regurgitation -- or the sensation of acid backing up into your throat or mouth. Regurgitation can produce a sour or bitter taste, and you may experience a "wet burp" or even vomit some contents of your stomach.
Dyspepsia. Many people with acid reflux disease also have a syndrome called dyspepsia. Dyspepsia is a general term for stomach discomfort. Symptoms of dyspepsia include:
- Burping
- Nausea after eating
- Stomach fullness or bloating
- Upper abdominal pain and discomfort
Antacid- Tums
Formula: CaCO3
Molar Mass: 100.0869 g/mol
Neutralization Reaction: CaCO3(s) + H+ (aq) → Ca2+(aq) + HCO3 (aq)
Antacid-Pepto-Bismol
Formula: BiO(HOC6H4COO)
Molar Mass: 361 g/mol
Neutralization Reaction: BiO(HOC6H4COO)(s) + 3 H+(aq) → Bi3+(aq) + H2O(l) + HOC6H4COOH(s)
Works Cited:
"TUMS Fast Acting Heartburn Relief & Heartburn Treatment." TUMS Fast Acting Heartburn Relief & Heartburn Treatment. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Oct. 2013.