|  | Conditions Treatments | Digestive Health

Immediate Acid Reflux Cures

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive condition that is worsened by certain lifestyle conditions. GERD creates acid reflux, which is stomach acid or bile washing back into the esophagus from the stomach. Symptoms of this disease include chest pain, heartburn, food or liquid regurgitation and sore throat. GERD is caused when the esophageal valve, which allows food and liquid into the stomach, is weakened or does not function properly.

  1. Immediate Relief

    • Stop smoking. Smoking causes the esophageal valve to malfunction which results in acid reflux. Consult with your doctor if you are having trouble quitting smoking.

      Eat small amounts of food frequently instead of large meals. For example, instead of eating three meals per day eat six meals per day with very small portions. Smaller meals are easier to digest and will not overwhelm the esophageal valve.

      Stay upright for at least three hours after eating. This will allow the food to move into your stomach and digestive tract and discourage food and acid movement back into the esophagus.

      Adjust your bed so the head is six to eight inches higher than the foot. Pillows are an ineffectual means of raising the head of the bed. Wood blocks securely attached to the bedpost or wedges specially designed for the mattress are better ways to raise the head of the bed.

      Do not wear tight, constrictive clothing. Tight clothing can cause pressure, pushing acid from the stomach into the esophagus.

      Avoid spicy foods, citrus-based foods, garlic, onion, chocolate, mint flavoring and drinks with caffeine. Do not eat fatty or fried foods. Foods such as pizza, spaghetti sauce, salsa and chili will also worsen symptoms.

      Begin losing excess weight. Extra body weight can create pressure in the stomach and push acid into the esophagus. If you are overweight or obese consult with your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan. A healthy plan would include dietary and lifestyle changes that result in losing one to two pounds per week.

    Medications

    • Consult with your doctor about taking medications if lifestyle changes are not helping your acid reflux. Antacids or medications that limit stomach acid production may help alleviate symptoms, but discuss possible side effects with a medical professional.

    Warnings

    • Consult with a doctor if you have been having heartburn or GERD symptoms for more than two weeks.
      Seek immediate medical help if your condition includes chest pain, arm pain, jaw pain or shortness of breath. These symptoms may indicate you are experiencing a heart attack.

Digestive Health - Related Articles