India, March 8 -- Digestive troubles are no strangers in desi households, and only a rare soul has not witnessed themselves or someone close to them pop an antacid pill on random occasions.

However, this common habit is a serious cause of health concern, according to Dr Sudhir Kumar, MD, DM, a neurologist at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad. Taking to X on March 7, he explained why this can arguably be considered a "silent health crisis" across the country.

The fact that antacids are available in India over the counter without the need for prescriptions makes them more prone to being misused by the public. And as a healthcare professional, Dr Kumar has witnessed the long-term effects.

"That daily antacid you pop for 'gas' or heartburn mig...