ANTIACID Meaning and
Definition
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An antiacid, also known as an antacid, refers to a substance or medication that aids in neutralizing excess stomach acid, providing relief from symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, and gastritis. It primarily functions by raising gastric pH levels, thereby alleviating discomfort resulting from the excessive secretion of stomach acid.
Antiacids are commonly available in various forms, including tablets, powders, liquids, and chewable tablets. They typically contain active ingredients such as calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or aluminum hydroxide. These compounds work by binding to excess stomach acid, creating a chemical reaction that neutralizes the acidic environment. By reducing the acidity of the stomach, antiacids help in soothing an array of gastrointestinal conditions and providing temporary relief.
These medications are often recommended for individuals suffering from occasional or mild acid-related symptoms or those caused by overindulgence in food or drink. Antiacids are readily accessible over-the-counter without a prescription, making them convenient for self-medication. However, it is essential to adhere to the recommended dosage and frequency, as excessive use of antiacids can potentially disrupt the body's natural pH balance, leading to complications such as electrolyte imbalances or metabolic alkalosis.
In addition to their acid-neutralizing properties, antiacids may offer a protective effect on the stomach lining and help prevent damage caused by persistent acid reflux or ulcers. Nonetheless, long-term or chronic acid-related conditions should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to assess the underlying causes and explore appropriate treatment options beyond short-term relief provided by antiacids.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ANTIACID
- zntiacid
- sntiacid
- wntiacid
- qntiacid
- abtiacid
- amtiacid
- ajtiacid
- ahtiacid
- anriacid
- anfiacid
- angiacid
- anyiacid
- an6iacid
- an5iacid
- antuacid
- antjacid
- antkacid
- antoacid
- ant9acid
Etymology of ANTIACID
The word "antiacid" is a combination of two word components: "anti-" and "acid".
The prefix "anti-" is derived from Greek and means "against" or "opposite". It is often used to imply being against or counteracting something.
The word "acid" comes from the Latin word "acidus", which means "sour" or "sharp". In chemistry, it refers to a substance with a pH level lower than 7.
Therefore, "antiacid" literally means "against acid" or something that works against acids. It is commonly used to describe medications or substances that neutralize or reduce the acidity in the stomach or other parts of the body.
Similar spelling words for ANTIACID
- anticancer,
- Enchest,
- antisocial,
- aneides,
- antioch,
- antigonia,
- eunuchised,
- eunuchized,
- Enchased,
- Inchest,
- antic,
- anticlinal,
- antacid,
- inchased,
- antioxidant,
- antigua,
- anticlimax,
- unchaste.
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