Gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as GERD, is a medical condition where food and other stomach contents back up into the esophagus which connects the stomach to the throat. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, individuals with GERD may experience frequent heartburn, a sore throat, nausea, vomiting and belching. Treatment for GERD may involve lifestyle changes, prescription medications or even surgery to correct the problem.
Step 1
Initiate lifestyle changes to help decrease symptoms of GERD in mild cases. Lifestyle changes include remaining upright after eating and avoiding acidic or fatty foods which may worsen the condition. Losing weight may help overweight individuals suffering from GERD. Carbonated drinks and alcohol should be avoided to prevent stomach contents from backing up due to their relaxing effect on the muscle, or sphincter, at the bottom of the esophagus which normally prevents reflux from occurring.
Step 2
Schedule an appointment with your health care provider to discuss additional treatment options. Moderate or severe cases of GERD which do not respond to lifestyle changes may require medication or even surgery to correct. Make a list of questions prior to your appointment, as well as a list of your symptoms. If possible, note times of the day when symptoms are worse and anything that causes symptoms to increase. Writing down all of this information will ensure you don’t forget to tell your provider anything during the appointment and it will help get your questions answered thoroughly.
Step 3
Take all medications prescribed by your doctor exactly as directed to relieve symptoms. The Ohio State University Medical Center explains that medications may be ordered which are available over the counter, or by prescription only. Antacids are available over the counter, and are useful in neutralizing stomach acid. Some medications like Gaviscon, actually have a foaming effect, which prevents reflux from occurring. A prescription may be given for other medications which decrease acid production, heal the lining of the esophagus if acid damage has occurred, or to help the stomach empty more quickly. Take these medications exactly as prescribed without missing a dose.
Step 4
Discuss surgical options with your doctor if other treatment methods have been unsuccessful. A procedure known as a Nissen fundoplication may be performed which attaches the upper portion of the stomach to the sphincter to prevent further reflux from occurring. This procedure may be done on patients of any age, and is done laparoscopically through a tiny incision in the stomach. Recovery from this procedure is usually short, requiring a hospital stay of only one to three days, as noted by The Ohio State University Medical Center.
