Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the contents of the stomach rise up into the esophagus. This extremely common condition is frequently referred to as heartburn, acid reflux or simply indigestion. Because the stomach contains acid, GERD can cause a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen. Other GERD symptoms may include a sour taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, a chronic cough or even trouble breathing.
These symptoms may wax and wane. Several steps may need to be taken when GERD flares up.
Avoid Triggers
Step 1
Avoid aggravating foods such as spicy foods, fried foods, and acidic fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and citrus. For some people, foods such as mint or onions may also worsen symptoms.
Step 2
Omit alcohol from the diet. All alcoholic beverages should be eliminated.
Step 3
Limit caffeine intake, including coffee and sodas. Drink decaffeinated beverages instead.
Step 4
Use acetaminophen instead of aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. These anti-inflammatory medications can further irritate the stomach.
Lifestyle Changes
Step 1
Eat small, frequent meals rather than large meals. This reduces the pressure in the stomach, leading to less reflux into the esophagus.
Step 2
Avoid lying down for 2 to 3 hours after eating.
Step 3
Raise the head of the bed by placing blocks under the top bedposts. By sleeping at an incline, less of the stomach acid will make its way into the esophagus. Simply using extra pillows is not helpful.
Step 4
Decrease pressure on the abdomen by losing weight if overweight and by wearing loose-fitting clothing.
Step 5
Stop using tobacco. Smoking can exacerbate GERD.
Medications
Step 1
Try an antacid such as calcium carbonate or bicarbonate to neutralize the stomach acid. This may be taken before or after meals as needed.
Step 2
Purchase a medication called an H2 blocker, such as cimetidine, famotidine, nizatidine or ranitidine. These can be taken every day to provide short-term relief of acid reflux. Follow the instructions on the bottle.
Step 3
Take a type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor if reflux symptoms present more than twice per week. These are generally taken once daily and help to prevent acid production. Examples are omeprazole, lansoprazole and a combination omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate. Follow the dosing instructions on the package.
Tips and Warnings
- Effective treatments for GERD symptoms may be different for everyone. Different medications or combinations of medications may be tried for adequate symptom relief.
- A medical professional should always be consulted if GERD symptoms persist beyond two weeks. Other warning signs which should prompt immediate medical attention include black or bloody stools, vomiting, weight loss, difficulty breathing, fever or severe pain.
Things You'll Need
- 2 blocks or bricks of equal size
- Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors
