How to Control Acid Reflux?

Gastroesophagael reflux disease, known as GERD, is a condition caused by the contents of the stomach backing up into the esophagus. It can be serious if left untreated. GERD can cause erosion of the esophagus, coughing and even breathing difficulties. There are ways to treat reflux.

Instructions

Take Control of the Disease

• 1

  Make some changes. Adjusting your lifestyle may be necessary after a diagnosis of reflux disease. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Exercise should not be done immediately following eating. It is best to wait 2 to 3 hours. It is also good not to lie down after eating, to help control acid reflux. Stress can be a factor in controlling acid reflux, so meditation, yoga and biofeedback can be helpful.

• 2

  Adjust your diet. Changing your diet is important in controlling acid reflux disease. Smaller, more frequent meals digest better than fewer, larger meals. Eating small amounts up to 6 times a day is recommended. Foods to avoid include those high in acid (tomatoes, citrus), or foods that are spicy, greasy or fried. Chocolate, mint and mustard may aggravate acid reflux. Avoid caffeine.

• 3

  Turn to medication. Over-the-counter antacids such as Tums and Rolaids are inexpensive and can provide quick, temporary relief for minor reflux. Histamine antagonists such as Zantac and Pepcid are stronger and longer acting. Omeprazole (Prilosec) is a proton pump inhibitor and can be bought over the counter. Gaviscon is a foam barrier that may help and is available at the drugstore.

• 4

  Make an appointment with your doctor, if over-the-counter medication is not working or you are taking it frequently. Your doctor may suggest an endoscopy to show if the esophagus is damaged. Medication will probably be prescribed, either the stronger forms of histamine antagonists or proton pump inhibitor. In addition to Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix and Aciphex are available, but only by prescription.

• 5

  Consider surgery as a last resort. Having surgery for acid reflux is not common. The procedure has a high risk of complications (damage to the esophagus, infection, scarring) and does not always work. It is only performed if all other methods of controlling the acid reflux have been tried, and if the condition has caused constant health problems, such as breathing and swallowing difficulties.