Acid reflux differs from the normal heartburn some people experience from time to time. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, happens often over a long period of time, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality explains. Symptoms can bring on the painful heartburn effects in the chest and throat, sometimes bringing a sour taste to the mouth. People experiencing acid reflux or frequent heartburn are usually able to keep it under control either through dietary changes or with over-the-counter medications. Other options are also available.
Avoiding Certain Foods
There are theories about not eating certain foods to prevent acid reflux, but it may be different foods for each person. The individual might have to find out the foods that lead to acid reflux. Once you know what causes the symptoms, you can eliminate or avoid those foods. Some people know the offenders that strike them, but they are ready and willing to enjoy those foods and suffer the temporary consequences while keeping a pack of antacids handy. But acid reflux may be caused by eating too much as well. It would be better to stick with small, frequent meals, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). It is also advised to avoid lying down for about three hours following a meal.
Lifestyle Changes
Smoking and excessive drinking may also lead to acid reflux. Kicking the cigarette habit and drinking in moderation, if at all, often relieves the problem. Losing weight through diet or exercise may also treat acid reflux problems, the NDDIC says. Acid reflux is a problem at night for many sufferers. The NDDIC suggests raising the head of the bed 6 to 8 inches by using wooden blocks or bricks under the bedposts to keep your head and upper chest slightly elevated. Extra pillows do not work as well.
Antacids
Such products as Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, Maalox and others help relieve the acid reflux effects by instantly neutralizing the acid in the stomach. Although the results are quick, they are short-term and deal with heartburn problems as they arise. Manufacturers use magnesium, calcium and aluminum salts to help in the neutralizing process. But magnesium salt may have side effects of diarrhea, and aluminum salt can result in constipation. Products combine magnesium and aluminum to balance the effects.
Acid Reducers
H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors do not relieve acid reflux immediately as antacids do, but they will relieve the symptoms for longer periods of time. H2 blockers include Tagamet HB, Pepcid AC, Axid AR and Zantac, and help decrease acid production. Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, Zegerid, Prevacid and Nexium take a little bit longer than H2 blockers to work, but the relief lasts longer. Inhibitors greatly reduce acid production.
Surgical Options
If problems persist even after using medication and making lifestyle changes, further tests by your doctor may be necessary. Sometimes surgery is recommended to manage severe symptoms of GERD. Surgical procedures include strengthening the esophageal sphincter to prevent the acid reflux. Surgery is up to the person, and some people choose it to avoid dealing with drugs and discomfort all the time.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Antacids and Acid Reducers: OTC Relief for Heartburn and Acid Reflux
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
