GERD: Combatting Acid Reflux

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If you’ve ever felt that fiery burn creeping up your chest after a meal, congratulations, you’ve met GERD. Short for gastroesophageal reflux disease, good is what happens when stomach acid decides to party in places it doesn’t belong.

Some people notice it after spicy food or after acid-based foods, and others after stress. Some unlucky souls suffer with it after just about anything, including water. If you’re reading this while preparing for a gastroscopy, take a breath because understanding GERD is already a big step towards feeling better. The one thing to know about this is it’s not just bad heartburn. It’s a chronic condition that can irritate the lining of your esophagus over time. Symptoms can start with chest pain or a sour taste in the mouth, but they can also include bloating, coughing, or that charming sensation of food coming back to haunt you. The good news is that while that second taste is lovely, there’s a lot you can do to calm the acid rebellion.

You can start with your food choices. The one thing that GERD enjoys is drama, and certain foods really do bring it out. Fatty foods, spicy meals, chocolate, citrus, tomatoes, coffee, and alcohol are frequent troublemakers for those with gastroesophageal reflux. That doesn’t mean that you’re doomed to a life of plain rice and sadness, but it does mean moderation. Smaller meals can help, and eating slowly also works. Overloading your stomach makes it more likely to push that acid upwards, like an overstuffed suitcase. Timing also matters more than most people think. Lying down straight after eating is basically an invitation for reflux. It’s important to wait at least two to three hours before you go to bed after you eat. If nighttime symptoms are your nemesis, raising the head of your bed slightly can help gravity do its thing. Extra pillows don’t quite cut it, but a small incline can work wonders.

If you’re carrying extra weight, that can increase pressure on the stomach, so even modest weight loss can reduce your symptoms. Smoking is another big offender. It relaxes the valve that keeps acid where it belongs. Quitting may not be easy, but if you’re in line for a gastroscopy, you should think about it and speak to your doctor. Your esophagus will also send you a thank-you card for quitting. The sneakiest villain in all of this is stress. While it doesn’t cause GERD directly, it can make symptoms feel much worse. Gentle exercise, deep breathing, and even a daily walk can help to keep stress and reflux in check.

When it all gets too much, going to your doctor and having medications as part of your plan will help. Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors reduce acid and give irritated tissues time to heal. Too much acid over time can also lead to cancers and other serious diseases that you could be avoiding. It may be persistent, but it’s not unbeatable.

*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.