Those who suffer from acid reflux often notice that it worsens at night, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. Lying down does not help food and acids move down the esophagus and through the digestive system. As a result, acids backflow through it. What can be done to prevent this bothersome condition? How can acid reflux be treated?
Mild and infrequent cases of acid reflux can be managed through certain treatments:
- Over-the-counter medications can help reduce heartburn, such as antacids. If there is no improvement, a doctor should be consulted.
- Avoid foods that trigger stomach acid, which can lead to acid reflux, such as alcohol, caffeinated beverages, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, fried foods, and fatty foods. However, it's important to note that trigger foods can vary from person to person. Studies examining foods that cause acid reflux sometimes contradict each other; some foods are problematic in certain studies while not in others.
- Keeping track of accompanying symptoms and documenting the triggering foods and factors can help the doctor in diagnosing and prescribing appropriate treatments. It is important to note the triggering foods, accompanying symptoms, and how long they last.
- Being aware of the side effects of medications being taken, as some medications can cause acid reflux; dosage reductions or changes may be necessary.
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, physical activities, and socializing with friends.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: There is a connection between excess weight and acid reflux. Extra weight, especially around the abdomen, increases pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. Symptoms may sometimes improve with weight loss.
- Elevating the head while sleeping.
- Sleeping on the left side.
- Trying different types of foods to identify those that trigger the condition.
- Eating several small meals throughout the day.
- Chewing food thoroughly and slowly.
- Avoiding eating within three hours before bedtime.
- Refraining from smoking.
- Avoiding tight clothing.
- Walking after dinner.
What are the causes of acid reflux? While the exact cause is not known, several factors can contribute:
- Pregnancy
- Eating certain foods
- Smoking
- Ulcers
- Alcohol consumption
- Hernia
- Bacterial infection in the stomach
- Elevated levels of certain hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
