Antacids are usually used to treat mild cases of dyspepsia and reflux, also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). They are not recommended to manage more severe GORD, or in the management of peptic ulcers. Dyspepsia Antacids have an acid neutralising effect. The gastric contents of the stomach are acidic, and antacids work by neutralising the acidity or increasing the pH to make the stomach contents less acidic. 5 mL of an antacid mixture is usually effective in reducing the acidity of the gastric contents, which otherwise could cause symptoms such as heartburn. In general, therapeutic doses of antacids are not associated with severe side effects. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) Most patients with GORD will respond well to the following treatment: Antacids at the prescribed doses Lifestyle changes Weight loss Postural measures. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) This bacterium is associated with both gastric and duodenal ulcers. After eradication of H. pylori

Oral health is important, and we must understand how our general health is affected by the health of our mouth, teeth and gums. Problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body. Furthermore, if you have dentures, you must know how to take care of your dentures to make sure your denture set lasts for many years to come. Oral Health The mouth contains germs like other areas in your body, but they are mostly harmless. However, since your mouth is the entry to your digestive system as well as your respiratory system, germs can spread and cause diseases throughout the body. Good oral care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep germs under control. A lack of oral hygiene may lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Certain diseases can lower the body’s ability to fight infection and can make oral health problems worse. The following

Constipation happens when hard, dry stool moves slowly through the large intestine, making it difficult to have a bowel movement. Many cases of constipation are due to a lack of fibre in a person’s diet. A high-fibre diet is the best solution for prophylaxis and treatment of constipation. There is in general an overuse of laxatives because people often consider it abnormal not to have a daily bowel movement. They consequently then take laxatives more often than what is necessary. Although it is generally safe to use laxatives, excessive use may lead to side effects, e.g. hyperkalaemia and other complications, such as damage to the colon. This may impair the normal functioning of the colon and consequently the need for more laxatives to manage the condition. Furthermore, repeated use of stimulant laxatives could lead to loss of water and electrolytes. There are various types of laxatives available on the market.

Oral thrush is also known as oral candidiasis. It is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans accumulates on the lining of your mouth. It is normal to have candida in your mouth, but sometimes it can overgrow and cause symptoms. Oral thrush causes creamy white lesions, usually on your tongue or inner cheeks. Sometimes oral thrush may spread to the roof of your mouth, your gums or tonsils, or the back of your throat. It is more likely to occur in babies and older adults because they have reduced immunity, however it can affect anyone, especially people with suppressed immune systems. In healthy individuals oral thrush is a minor problem but symptoms may be more severe and more difficult to control if you have a weakened immune system. Symptoms The following signs and symptoms may include: Creamy white lesions on your tongue, inner cheeks, and sometimes on the

Psoriasis can start at any time during your life. It is a T-cell mediated inflammatory dermatological disorder that is still not well understood. This abnormal skin condition causes skin cells to be produced faster, and the cells mature and reach the outside layers of the skin at a faster rate. A person with psoriasis will notice some red spots on their skin and flaky dry skin over any part of their body. According to research the prevalence of psoriasis in the population is between 0,6 % and 4,8 %. The following are typical signs of what a person may experience: Dryness of skin Red, scaly patches which can develop on any part of the body such as Elbows Knees Nails Lower back Studies have also linked psoriasis to the following lifestyle factors: Smoking Alcohol consumption Diet Emotional stress Infections Nutrient deficiency Protein Folate Omega-3 from fish oils, plant leaves and some vegetable