How to Treat Acid Reflux

Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease of GERD for short, acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid or bile flows out of the stomach and into the esophagus. Over time, recurring acid reflux can damage the esophagus and lead to a number of health issues. Fortunately, the condition is treatable, using both prescription medication and sometimes simple acid reflix home remedies. Here are some examples.

Step 1

See your doctor. The acid reflux may be a symptom of some emerging health issue. Catching the condition early will make it much easier to begin effective treatment of this underlying problem, and bring the reflux to an end.

Step 2

Try over the counter antacids, if your doctor does not find anything seriously wrong. Make sure to read the usage instructions, since overuse of some of these products can lead to diarrhea or trigger a bout with constipation.

Step 3

Consider prescription medication. When over the counter approaches don't seem to help, you may need something stronger. Try medications that reduce the production of acid in your stomach, such as famotidine or ranitidine. If these don't seem to help, you may need a prescription medication designed to block acid production altogether; drugs like esomeprazole or pantoprazole.

Step 4

Think about herbal remedies. Some people find that teas (fusions) made with chamomile, licorice, or slippery elm help to reduce stomach acid and bring relief. If you are taking any type of prescription medication for acid reflux, talk with your doctor before adding acid reflux homel remedies to the mix, as some of them may trigger unpleasant interactions with the medication.

Step 5

Make some lifestyle changes. While treating your acid reflux, it's a good idea to get rid of bad habits that may be leading to the reflux attacks. If you smoke, stop immediately, since the smoke interferes with the proper function of your esophageal sphincter and makes it easier for the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Identify foods that trigger attacks, and avoid them. Don't eat a lot of food just before retiring at night. Simple changes like these can help you get control of the condition, and live without constantly dealing with acid reflux.

Tips and Warnings

Don't become discouraged if one type of treatment does not seem to do the trick. Not everyone responds to different treatments in the same way. Keep working with your doctor until you find the right combination to get your condition under control, then stick with it.