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What is Acid Reflux Disease?

Acid reflux disease is also known as gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD for short. When we examine the name of the disease we understand what it means. The acid is stomach acid, and the word 'reflux' means 'to back up.' When acid 'refluxes' into the esophagus, which is the connection between the mouth and stomach, it can cause discomfort and pain and even lead to scarring and burning ulcers. It is therefore important to treat acid reflux disease to avoid further damage to the esophagus and throat lining.

How Do I Treat Acid Reflux Disease?

Luckily there are many treatments or simply changes in lifestyle that can help to ease the symptoms of acid reflux disease. You should see your doctor to see what treatments may be right for you, but in the meantime there are a few simple ideas you can try which may help.

Lose Weight

As with many other ailments, being overweight makes acid reflux disease worse. Losing weight goes hand in hand with treating acid reflux as many of the recommended lifestyle changes for acid reflux also help with weight loss.

Avoid Alcohol and Cigarettes

Both the nicotine in cigarettes as well as alcohol may weaken the esophageal sphincter which is supposed to close off the stomach from the esophagus. Avoiding or limiting these is important to those with acid reflux disease.

Don't Lie Down After Meals

After you eat a meal, it is natural for your stomach to produce more acid, because the acid is necessary to digest foods properly. If you lie down, and you esophageal sphincter is not working properly as in acid reflux disease, the acid can flow into the esophagus quite easily. Sit or stand for an hour or two after meals, and don't eat directly before bed. Gravity will keep the stomach contents in your stomach.

Don't Eat Large Meals or Fast Food

The more you eat at one time, the larger the quantity of acid your stomach will produce at one time. If you eat smaller meals, perhaps eating four of five small meals instead of three large ones, it can have a beneficial effect on acid reflux disease. And avoiding fast foods at all cost, which are usually high in fat, sugar and calories, will not only help your symptoms but also help you lose weight.

Take Prescription Medicines

Your doctor may prescribe you over-the-counter or prescription medications. Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience any side effects or if you do not feel better after taking the medication. It may not be the right one for you. There are many solutions out there. It's important to find the one that will help you be free of acid reflux disease.