Gerd Treatments for Heartburn Symptoms
You know, there are many different GERD treatments for you to consider, but what you will find here are home measures that are believed to help relieve symptoms of heartburn.
First, Let's Describe Heartburn
Photo courtesy of Microsoft Clipart
Some people call it heartburn, others call it acid reflux, and there are those who call it GERD. Here's how those who have had heartburn describe this disorder...
' It is a feeling of burning or warmth sensation beneath the breastbone that is spreading upward in waves into the neck area, accompanied with a sour taste in the mouth. It usually starts after eating and it lasts for two hours or longer '.
Individuals get heartburn every now and then and it affects nearly everyone. However, if you get this regularly, you could be suffering from GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease that can lead to other health problems. Abnormal backing up of acid from the stomach into the food pipe (esophagus) causes heartburn.
The Following Treatments May Help Relieve Your Heartburn Symptoms
- Elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches by putting blocks underneath the bed frame or by using a foam wedge underneath the mattress.
- Avoid medications that can cause heartburn such as anti-inflammatory Ibuprofen, aspirin, Motrin, naproxen. Use Tylenol instead.
- Maintain a stress-free environment as much as possible.
- Do not wear tight clothing to bed and avoid tight clothing around the waist.
- Wait at least 3 hours after eating before you lie down. Eat smaller meals and avoid late night snacks. Do not eat 3 hours before bedtime.
- Avoid foods that can cause heartburn. These include fats, fried foods, carbonated drinks, spicy or highly seasoned foods, processed foods, peppermint/spearmint-flavored food, tomatoes, onions, caffeinated products, chocolate, and alcohol. Limit acidic foods that can irritate the lining of your esophagus including citrus juices and fruits such as grapefruit and orange juice.
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out if your existing medications can cause heartburn.
- One of the Gerd treatments that is important is for smokers to stop smoking. Smoking can worsen heartburn.
- Lose weight if you are overweight. Losing just a few pounds can prevent heartburn.
- Maintain an exercise program that includes low impact aerobics, walking and biking.
- Avoid exercises that put pressure on your stomach such as running and weight lifting.
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It is important to emphasize that you should not reject mainstream medical attention and guidance and the use of recommended products, treatments, and remedies for individual disorder should be approved and monitored by your health care provider. See disclaimer for more!
