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Reflux Precautions

Reflux; also known as acid reflux disease, heartburn, or more scientifically, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a painful condition in which the acid in the stomach backs up into the esophagus. The effects of reflux might include injury to the lining of the esophagus, esophageal inflammation, pain, and a change of dietary practices. Acid reflux sufferers should take several precautions.
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  1. Watch What You Eat

    • According to WebMD.com, certain foods increase the frequency and severity of reflux. The list includes common dietary staples such as ground beef, corn and potato chips, doughnuts, coffee, tea, liquor and wine. These affect the lower esophageal sphincter's ability to block stomach acid from entering the esophagus. Eating these foods in moderation might help reflux symptoms.

      Pat Baird, R.D., a professional with the National Heartburn Alliance, suggests eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of three large meals. Larger meals and foods with high fat contact stay in the stomach longest, exposing the esophagus for a longer period to the stomach acid. Smaller meals may help reduce the frequency of reflux flare-ups.

    Medications: Precautionary

    • Taking over-the-counter medication might help symptoms and further protect the esophagus from the harmful effects of stomach acid. Antacids, acid reducers, and acid controllers are used to treat reflux symptoms.

      Antacids help neutralize acid. Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, and Rolaids are common antacids. They are used for fast-acting, temporary relief.

      Acid reducers help limit the amount of acid in your stomach. Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, and Zantac 75 are all examples of acid-reducing medications. These provide longer relief from symptoms than antacids, but they don't work as quickly.

      Prilosec OTC and Prevacid 24 HR are used to block acid production, allowing time for the esophagus to heal. These are not as fast-acting as antacids or acid reducers, but they allow for esophageal healing, unlike the others.

      When using these over-the-counter medications, follow the instructions for best and safest results.

    Additional Precautions

    • Other precautions if you are diagnosed with reflux disease include giving time in-between meals before lying down, elevating the head of your bed, and stopping cigarette usage. Wait at least two hours after a meal before lying down. This gives the body time to partially digest your food; acid finds its way into the esophagus easier when lying down. After two hours, the amount of acid in your stomach reduces, lessening the chance of reflux after eating. Elevating the head of your bed helps keep acid from entering the esophagus during sleep. Smoking inhibits the esophageal sphincter's ability to block acid reflux properly.

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