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Acid Reflux Therapy

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is often referred to as acid reflux. This condition occurs when stomach acids move back up the esophagus after a meal. Acid reflux can cause damage to the stomach lining and the lining of the esophagus. Treatment for acid reflux is generally long-term. Once acid reflux has been diagnosed and treatment begins, the sufferer must continue treatment or the condition will recur.

  1. Things to Do

    • Elevate the head of the bed approximately six to eight inches. Lying down after you eat and keeping the head elevated, will help to prevent food from coming back up the esophagus. If you are overweight, you should consider losing weight. Excess weight in the stomach can push food back up the esophagus. Certain foods can aggravate the acid in your stomach and can make your reflux worse. Avoid spicy, fatty, fried foods and avoid caffeine and alcohol. All of these can increase the stomach acid in the stomach.

    Antacids

    • An antacid is a medication that is usually a base or salt that counteracts the acid within the stomach. When the acid is neutralized the reflux can be controlled. Antacids are usually taken by mouth and coat the lining of the stomach. They usually come in tablet form and are chewable. Take two tablets by mouth four times per day or as directed by a physician. Antacids can also come in liquid form, such as Maalox or Mylanta, and can be purchased at a drug store.

    Medication

    • Your physician may prescribe a medication that will speed up the emptying of the stomach. Reglan is a name brand treatment for acid reflux. Take this medication 30 minutes before meal time and again just before bed time. Prescription medications do not relieve the symptoms of gastric reflux; however, they do help prepare the stomach for food.

    Surgery

    • Patients who do not respond well to treatment, as well as those who must constantly take medications to control reflux, may consider surgery. Surgery is done to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. By strengthening these muscles, the surgeon completely eliminates reflux and heartburn. Laparoscopic surgery is performed around the belly button and recover time is generally quick.

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