Acid reflux happens when stomach acid creeps up into the esophagus. That burning in your chest, sour taste in the mouth, or burping after meals are classic signs. You don’t need to suffer—small changes often make a big difference fast.
Eat smaller meals. Big plates push your stomach and increase reflux. Try five smaller meals instead of three big ones. Wait at least 2–3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. Gravity helps keep acid where it belongs.
Raise the head of your bed 6–8 inches or use a wedge pillow. This keeps your upper body tilted and reduces night-time reflux. Losing even 5–10 pounds can lower reflux symptoms if you’re overweight—fat around the belly increases pressure on your stomach.
Quit smoking and cut back on alcohol. Both relax the valve between stomach and esophagus, making reflux more likely. Swap late-night snacks for a light, low-fat option and skip spicy or acidic foods right before bed.
Common triggers: fried or fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, garlic, onions, citrus, tomatoes, coffee, and carbonated drinks. Keep a simple food log for a week—note what you eat and any heartburn. That helps spot personal triggers faster than guessing.
Try low-acid options: oatmeal, bananas, lean proteins, steamed vegetables, and whole grains. These are gentle on the stomach and can reduce episodes.
Over-the-counter options can be useful. Antacids (Tums, Rolaids) neutralize acid fast but briefly. H2 blockers (ranitidine was removed; use famotidine) reduce acid for several hours. Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole) cut acid production more strongly—good for frequent symptoms, but don’t use long-term without talking to your doctor.
If you take OTC meds more than twice a week, see a clinician. Regular heartburn could be GERD and may need testing or prescription treatment. Alarm signs—difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting, or black/tarry stools—need prompt medical attention.
Tests your doctor may suggest include endoscopy (look inside the esophagus), pH monitoring (measure acid), or manometry (check muscle function). These help pick the right treatment if lifestyle changes don’t work.
Pregnancy often brings reflux—try the same lifestyle tips and check with your obstetrician before taking any medicine. For long-term control, your doctor can help pick a safe plan that fits your situation.
Fixing acid reflux is rarely mysterious. Cut triggers, change habits, use short-term meds smartly, and get medical help if symptoms persist or get worse. Small steps usually bring relief.
Explore a variety of alternatives to Esomeprazole, including new and traditional methods for managing GERD and related conditions. Learn about the pros and cons of each option, from Vonoprazan to lifestyle changes, helping you find the best fit for your needs.