What Exactly is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. This causes heartburn and other symptoms.
Chronic or severe acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Mild or moderate reflux symptoms can often be relieved with diet and lifestyle changes. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can also help with symptom relief.
Medications used to treat GERD include:
antacids
H2 blockers
proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Acid reflux, or “gastroesophageal reflux (GER),” is a condition in which your stomach contents come back up into your esophagus.
Stomach acid that touches the lining of your esophagus can cause heartburn, also called acid indigestion. This condition may be referred to many different names such as; Reflux, Heartburn, Acid Regurgitation, Acid Reflux, or Acid Indigestion.
GERD can sometimes be managed by:
- Taking medications that will reduce acid in the stomach
- Having smaller sized of meals
- Weight loss ( if overweight )
- No smoking
- Avoiding acidic foods that are known to irritate esophageal lining
- Avoiding lying down for two to three hours after food intake
- Elevating the head of the bed six inches