What is Acid Reflux, and what can I do About It?
Causes of Acid Reflux
There are many factors that can affect the proper functioning of the LES. One of the primary factors can be your choice of diet. Some foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, onions and garlic, chocolate and alcoholic beverages are known culprits of acid reflux. There may be other foods that are unique to your condition. Often, simply avoiding the foods the give you trouble is enough to keep your acid reflux at bay. Pressure on the LES can stem from being overweight, eating a particularly large meal or wearing your belts too tight. Again, avoiding these issues can help you to avoid acid reflux as well. Since gravity plays a part in keeping those foods and acids in the stomach where they belong, don’t lie down shortly after eating, and avoid meals within two to three hours of bedtime. All of these causes of acid reflux stem from behaviors that you can control to avoid the painful symptoms.
Treatment of Acid Reflux
If you are already experiencing the painful burning sensation of acid reflux, there are treatment options available. Over the counter antacids like Rolaids will neutralize the stomach acids and eliminate the burning. These medications generally act quickly and effectively on occasional heartburn. Another option is an H-2-receptor blocker, which is known by commercial names like Tagamet or Pepcid. These medications work to reduce the amount of acid that the stomach produces. They are highly effective at treating acid reflux, but they don’t work as quickly as antacids and they are best taken about 30 minutes prior to eating a meal.
If you suffer from frequent acid reflux symptoms, or if the over the counter remedies don’t work for you, talk to your doctor about additional causes and treatment options for your frequent acid reflux. Relief is just a phone call away.