Acid indigestion, also known as acid reflux and heartburn, is the result of stomach acid traveling up the esophagus. Symptoms include a burning sensation in the throat and chest, burping and coughing after eating. Several lifestyle factors can cause acid indigestion, including alcohol, smoking and eating certain foods. Overweight people and pregnant women are prone to the condition. Several remedies can help prevent or relieve the symptoms of acid indigestion. If your symptoms get worse, or you experience persistent acid indigestion multiple times per week, consult your physician. Acid indigestion can be a symptom of a more serious condition.
Step 1
Take an over-the counter antacid at the first sign of acid indigestion. Follow the dosing instructions on the package. Some antacids, such as sodium bicarbonate-based drugs, neutralize stomach acid and work on contact. Others, such as H2-receptor blockers, reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, but they can take an hour to work. Take H2 blockers before eating foods that may cause acid indigestion. Proton pump inhibitors also reduce acid production; you generally take this medication to prevent acid indigestion, rather than after its onset.
Step 2
Eat slowly and avoid overeating. Eating quickly can increase acid production, and overfilling your stomach may cause acid to travel back up the esophagus.
Step 3
Avoid foods that trigger acid indigestion. Triggers vary by individual, however, onions, caffeine and chocolate can all cause acid indigestion, as well as acidic foods such as citrus and tomatoes.
Step 4
Stop smoking and avoid alcohol. Nicotine and alcohol both weaken the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus that keeps acid from escaping.
Step 5
Sleep on your left side and prop up the head of your bed on blocks. Sleeping on your left side reduces pressure on your stomach and digestive tract. Lying flat may cause the acid to flow back up your esophagus, so raising the head of your bed helps prevent the acid from flowing backward.
Step 6
Wait at least two hours before exercising after eating, and drink plenty of water during exercise. Avoid exercises that have you bending over or that compress your stomach. Drinking water aids in digestion.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter antacid medication
- Two wood or cement blocks
