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Terms explained

Terms explained

Alginates

Medicines that form a layer on top of the stomach contents and help to reduce reflux and protect the lining of the gullet – some medicines contain both an alginate and an antacid.

Antacids

Medicines that reduce excess acid in the stomach – some medicines contain both an alginate and an antacid.

H2 blocker

Also called H2 receptor antagonists or H2RAs – these medicines stop the stomach producing too much acid. The stomach produces acid to help break down food, but sometimes the acid can irritate the stomach and cause indigestion. H2RAs act in a different way to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and tend to be less powerful in reducing stomach acid.

NSAID

NSAID stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. People take NSAIDs for conditions such as arthritis, and as painkillers.

Oesophagus (or gullet)

The tube from the mouth to thestomach down which food passes.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs stop the stomach from producing too much acid. The stomach produces acid to help break down food, but sometimes the acid can irritate the stomach and cause indigestion.

Upper gastrointestinal cancer

Upper gastrointestinal cancer can affect the oesophagus (gullet), stomach or first part of the intestine (duodenum).

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