According to Medical News Today, acid reflux occurs when the stomach acids used to help digest the food in your stomach flow back up into your esophagus, resulting in pain and discomfort. The most common symptoms include heartburn, which can present as chest pain; asthma, as the acids block the air passages of the lungs; and stomach contents in the mouth (also known as regurgitation). There are many causes of this condition; however, there are also many ways to reduce the number of episodes you have.
Step 1
Quit smoking. If you smoke and suffer from acid reflux, your habit could very well be the cause. Smoking reduces both the production of saliva and the amount of bicarbonates found in the saliva. These bicarbonates help neutralize your stomach acids, preventing them from flowing upward. Smoking also increases the production of stomach acids, increasing your chances of suffering from acid reflux. Speak to your doctor about the variety of smoking-cessation products on the market to find out which is the best option for you. There is also a resource link listed below for a quit-smoking hotline.
Step 2
Change your diet. According to the NYU Medical Center/School of Medicine, your diet may play a large role in the frequency and severity of your acid reflux attacks. Certain foods can trigger your condition and include fatty and spicy foods, foods that are highly acidic such as citrus fruits and tomato-based products, and beverages that are carbonated or contain caffeine. Eliminating these foods may help reduce the number of acid reflux attacks you suffer.
Step 3
Watch when you eat. While what you eat can be a major factor, when you eat may be equally as important. The experts at NYU Medical Center/School of Medicine say you should eat at least three to four hours before lying down; this gives your stomach acids time to digest your food and neutralize. You should also stop snacking late at night; the moment you eat, it's a signal to your stomach acids to begin production again.
Step 4
Lose weight. A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that obesity was linked to acid reflux. The experts at NYU Medical Center/School of Medicine also recommend losing weight to help reduce episodes. While there are a number of diets on the market today, your best bet is to visit your doctor and devise a healthy diet plan and exercise regimen with him. If you do not have a doctor, see the weight-loss plan located below in the Resources link.
Step 5
Take medication. If all else has failed, you can reduce acid reflux with medication. If you suffer from heartburn or indigestion occasionally, you can try an over-the-counter antacid; these help neutralize stomach acids. However, if you find your problem is a consistent one, speak to your doctor about an acid suppressant or proton pump inhibitor; both of these reduce the inflammation of your stomach, which helps reduce the production of stomach acid.
Things You'll Need
- Smoking cessation program
- Dietary changes
- Weight-loss program
- Medication
