Gastroesophageal reflux disorder is a serious form of heartburn that is persistent. People who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux symptoms more than twice a week are considered to have the disorder, which is also called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. It occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular valve, weakens and allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus to cause a burning sensation in the chest, or sour taste in the back of the throat.
Daily Changes
Foods that spark acid reflux reactions are not the same for everyone. Common foods and beverages to avoid may include spicy or fatty foods, tomato products, citrus fruits and juices, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages. Eating smaller meals and not lying down two to three hours following a meal reduces stomach acid symptoms, according to the National Institutes of Health.A healthy diet will help lose any excess pounds. Being overweight can cause heartburn because of the pressure put on the abdomen. Tight clothing can have the same effect on the abdomen, so loose-fitting clothing is advised. Avoid suffering from acid reflux while sleeping by raising the head of the bed about six inches. This keeps the upper body raised to prevent acid reflux at night. Wooden blocks can be placed under the bedposts, or foam wedges can be used under the mattress at the head of the bed. Extra pillows don't work because only the head is raised instead of the chest.
Medication
Simple over-the-counter antacids are not usually sufficient for people with GERD. Stronger prescription medications prevent symptoms and promote healing of the esophagus. The frequent bouts with acid reflux can eventually damage the lining of the esophagus. H2 blockers reduce the amount of stomach acid and eliminate symptoms in up 50 percent of patients with GERD, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Proton pump inhibitors are effective long-term medications prescribed when H2 blockers don't eliminate the problem. Inhibitors reduce symptoms and heal esophageal damage faster than H2 blockers. It may take several weeks until healing is complete. The medications are not a cure for GERD because the condition often relapses. People who have recurring symptoms need to continue with the medication when episodes occur.
Surgery
When diet, lifestyle changes and prescribed medication are not stopping the symptoms, surgery may be necessary, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Some people may decide on surgery to avoid a lifetime of taking medication and dealing with the persistent discomfort of acid reflux. Surgical techniques include wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen it and prevent acid reflux. Other methods include putting folds on the sphincter to strengthen it, or using electrodes to create tiny burns, so scar tissue can toughen the muscle.
