Acid reflux disease affects thousands of Americans, causing heartburn and chest pain.

For serious cases, patients must take medications that block acid production in the stomach.

However, new research shows these drugs may increase the risk of suffering a hip fracture. Researchers found 44 percent of persons over 50, had an increased risk of hip fracture after taking the drugs for more than a year.

Scientists say while these drugs work to lower stomach acidity, they may also affect how the body absorbs calcium, leading to decreased bone density.