How to Relieve GERD Symptoms

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when a ring of muscle called a sphincter in the lower esophagus doesn't work properly, allowing a backflow of stomach contents up into the esophagus. Heartburn is the most common symptom, resulting when stomach acid comes into contact with the esophagus. Other symptoms include a dry cough, asthma-like symptoms or trouble swallowing. There are several ways to relieve GERD symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  Lose weight if necessary. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, extra weight pushes on your stomach and causes acid to flow back up into your esophagus. Weight loss should be done gradually, so will not result in quick relief from GERD, but it will help over the long term.

• 2

  Eat small, frequent meals and avoid tight clothing. Overeating and tight clothing put pressure on the stomach, which can force stomach acid into the esophagus.

• 3

  Stay away from foods that cause heartburn. The type of food is different for each person. If you're not sure which foods might trigger heartburn for you, begin by paying attention to whether symptoms appear after you eat fatty or fried foods, citrus fruits, garlic, onions, tomato-based foods, spicy foods and chocolate. Alcohol and caffeine may also result in GERD.

• 4

  Try raising the head of your bed six to nine inches. Gravity will help keep stomach acids down rather than assisting the acid reflux. Also, wait two to three hours after eating before you lie down.

• 5

  Take antacids or medications that reduce the production of stomach acid and neutralize stomach acid. Antacids may provide quick relief, but they won't heal damage done to the esophagus by stomach acid. Also, be aware that using too many antacids can cause diarrhea or constipation. Medications to reduce the amount of stomach acid are also available over-the-counter, including cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid) and ranitidine (Zantac). They do not work as quickly as antacids but they provide longer relief.

• 6

  Visit your doctor. Experts at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases advise you to see your physician if you have symptoms of GERD and have used over-the-counter medications for more than two weeks. GERD can cause chronic inflammation that scars the esophagus. As scarring builds up you may have a hard time swallowing. Stomach acid can cause a sore to develop in esophageal tissue. It can also cause changes in the lining of the esophagus that may develop into cancer. You can receive prescription-strength medications to reduce acid production or to help your stomach empty more quickly.

• 7

  Consider surgical treatment. If lifestyle changes and medications don't relieve your GERD symptoms your physician may recommend surgical procedures to tighten the esophageal sphincter so that it can do a better job of preventing stomach acid from coming up into the esophagus.