Sunday I thought my mother's passion for otc antacids was funny. First she asked me if I had any Tums. When I told her "no," she persisted, "In that big purse, you don't have any Tums? Are you sure?"
But then I read a little about Tums and, like aspirin or cold medicine, it's not completely harmless and could be interfering with her prescription meds. Not only that, it can exacerbate some of her symptoms -- including constipation and kidney problems.
I don't want my mother mad at me, so I asked the nurse not to name me as the source of this tip. But I want to help her get well!
I so rarely take Tums, I didn't realize they could exacerbate problems.
ReplyDeleteYou did the right thing. I never would have imagined that Tums could be so bad, so that's great that you took the time to do the research.
ReplyDeleteYes, you absolutely did the right things. Tums are an alkaline, designed to counteract stomach acid. But the stomach is supposed to be somewhat acidic, and the stomach connects (ultimately) to the colon. It could be throwing off the whole balance.
ReplyDeleteEither way, her doctor needs to know what she's taking, because it could impact her other meds. Good call.
I had no idea this connection existed. Great detective work, Gal.
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