Are you using a Proton Pump Inhibitor?
Proton pump inhibitors (you might know them by the names of Somac or Nexium), are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the Australian community.
They work wonderfully well for reflux and dyspepsia by getting rid of that horrible heartburn and stomach discomfort feeling.
I see many patients that have been on Proton pump inhibitors for a long time and while they do work wonders for most, staying on PPI’s for an extended time period is not going to be any more beneficial and may potentially cause harm. If you have been on proton pump inhibitors for some time, for example more than 8 weeks then please read on.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a problem where acid from the stomach comes up into the oesophagus. This can lead to the oesophagus burning, spasming and the person feeling very uncomfortable. For people who have this less than twice a week, they might be able to fix the problem with diet and lifestyle modification. This includes measures such as stopping smoking, limiting alcohol intake, losing weight, changing the diet especially to reduce the size and spiciness of meals, and also raising the bed head when it is time to go to bed.
If your symptoms are more prominent than this, the odds are that somebody has offered you a proton pump inhibitor somewhere down the line.
Proton pump inhibitors are great at protecting the oesophagus from acid reflux, if reflux goes on untreated, apart from being uncomfortable, it can lead to changes in the cells of the oesophagus. While this is an effective and great treatment, long term it can have some negative effects. The acid in the stomach is actually very useful. It is helping to digest your food, it is maintaining a certain population of beneficial bacteria and it is helping to absorb nutrients such as iron and B12. Studies have shown that people who are on prolonged proton pump inhibitor therapy can have issues when these mechanisms are interfered with.
So what is the current suggestion?
If you do need to take proton pump inhibitors it is suggested that you start with a standard dose for 4-8 weeks. At the end of 8 weeks it is good to review with your GP. If you have been on PPI’s for more than 8 weeks then go and have a check up with your Doctor now to review your progress. Once you and your GP have managed to bring your symptoms under control then it is recommended that the use of Proton pump inhibitor’s ceases. Many people will not need to take a proton pump inhibitor all the time, only sporadically when they are having a bad day and this approach is fine and much safer for overall gut health than constant use.
Important News
Dealing with the Flu
Influenza is caused by a virus. Most people recover after a few days, but in some it can be life-threatening. To avoid influenza, have an annual influenza vaccination. If you have influenza, cover your coughs and sneezes, wash your hands before touching others, and stay at home.
Dealing with Depression and Anxiety
Talking to your GP about a change in your mental health is a very good place to start to get you on the road to recovery. GPs care for many people who are feeling low or distressed. They can help you find a way back to a better frame of mind.
Quit Smoking – Preparation is the key!
The more prepared and motivated you are, the more likely you are to succeed in quitting. Developing a quit plan can help. The benefits that you have to gain as a non-smoker outweigh the short-term difficulties of quitting.
Do you need an IUD inserted and/or removed?
IUD’s are safe, cheap and effective contraception, and work well to control heavy periods.
Do you need a skin lesion looked at or removed?
Which ever doctor you choose here at Blackbutt, they will be very happy to give you thorough skin check.
Why it’s important to identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient
Identifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients is important because it makes a difference to clinical care.
Cervical Screening has changed
As many of you will already be aware, from December 2017 Australia changed the program for screening for cervical cancer.
Are you using a Proton Pump Inhibitor?
Proton pump inhibitors (you might know them by the names of Somac or Nexium), are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the Australian community.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Flu Vaccination
With flu season on the horizon it’s important to get educated about how to best minimise your chance of contracting and spreading the flu, and vaccination is the best way to do this!
Sleep and Insomnia
Sleep disorders are a very common reason for presentation to the GP. Sleep is so important to your physical and mental health so it’s crucial that if you are consistently having trouble sleeping that you discuss this with your GP.
Being connected to your health has never been easier!
At Blackbutt Doctors, we are incorporating technology to make communication about your health as easy and convenient as possible.
Changes to Billing for TeleHealth Appointments
Important patient information regarding changes in billing for TeleHealth appointments.
Blackbutt Clinical Centre win PHN’s ‘Supporting Patients Through Technology’ Award
Blackbutt were awarded for ” Supporting Patients Through Technology” last night at the Primary Health Networks’ Primary Care Quality and Innovation Awards 2021.
Infectious Symptoms Clinic Ceasing
From Monday the 20th of March 2023 there will be a different way to manage clinic appointments.
AI transcription for note-taking during consultations.
Starting Monday, August 5th, our general practice will implement AI transcription for note-taking during consultations.
Breast Screening and Breast Density
Understanding Breast Density: What You Need to Know
Changes to Mental Health Appointments Under Medicare
Medicare is introducing updates to the Better Access mental health program to help improve continuity of care and support ongoing patient wellbeing.
Important Centre Update – Bulk Billing
From 1 November, you may encounter media coverage suggesting that general practices are “returning to bulk billing.” We wish to be transparent—this change does not apply to our clinic.
Welcoming Dr Andrew French to Blackbutt Doctors
Blackbutt Clinical Centre is pleased to welcome Dr Andrew French to our growing team of dedicated general practitioners.