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Cures for Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastroesphageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a chronic condition that is different from occasional acid reflux. If you live with this type of reflux, you may experience an array of uncomfortable symptoms after eating meals. Symptoms typically include heartburn, nausea, sore throat, coughing and vomiting. There are ways to manage gastroesophageal reflux disease and ease symptoms.

  1. Recognize Trigger Foods

    • It's a fact that certain foods trigger reflux disease or worsen existing symptoms. Recognize the foods that bring on or aggravate the condition. Sadly, you can't eat or drink whatever your want. Diet modifications are crucial, and failure to modify your diet can lead to complications such as esophageal cancer. Possible trigger foods and drinks include caffeine, spicy foods, peppermint and fatty foods.

    Healthy Weight

    • GERD doesn't discriminate, nor does the disease affect only overweight individuals. However, being overweight is an acid reflux trigger. Lose weight to stop GERD and alleviate symptoms. Eat fewer calories a day and stay active: start exercising, play sports or go for a walk.

    Smaller Meals

    • Overeating also triggers gastroesophageal reflux. And you're more likely to overeat when you only eat three times a day. Alter your eating pattern. Instead of three large meals a day--breakfast, lunch and dinner--eat four to six smaller meals a day. You'll consume less, feel fuller longer and reduce reflux symptoms.

    Don't Eat before Bed

    • To stop stomach acid from traveling up the esophagus, eat at least three hours before bed. Give your food time to digest or settle. Eating just prior to bedtime or lying down increases your chances of developing reflux symptoms. In addition, elevating the head of your bed with blocks may reduce GERD. Raise the bedpost at least six inches to notice a difference.

    Medications

    • If home remedies are ineffective, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about acid reducers. Over-the-counter antacids are available for mild cases of reflux. If you suffer from a moderate or severe type of reflux, your doctor will likely recommend a prescription drug. These medications neutralize stomach acid or block the production of acid.

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