How To Treat Acid Reflux

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Overview

Acid reflux (also known as GORD) is a disorder where abdominal acid leaks out of the belly and into the esophagus (gullet).

Symptoms of GORD consist of:

  • Heartburn – stinging pain on the chest or uneasiness that takes place after eating.
  • An unfriendly taste in the mouth that tends to be sour which is caused by the abdominal acid flowing back into the mouth (this is referred to as regurgitation).
  • Difficult to swallow (dysphagia).

The symptoms of GORD can extend from mild to serious.

Self-care Methods

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common disorder where abdominal acid leaks out of the belly and into the esophagus (gullet).
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common disorder where abdominal acid leaks out of the belly and into the esophagus (gullet).

There are several of self-care methods that may help to relieve the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). They are described below.

  • If you are large, losing weight might help to decrease the severity and occurrence of your symptoms because it will decrease the pressure on your stomach.
  • If you are a smoker, you should deliberate quitting.Tobacco smoke can aggravate your digestive system and might make the symptoms of GORD worse.
  • Eat smaller, more regular meals rather than three big meals a day.Make certain that you have your evening meal three to four hours prior to bedtime.
  • Be alert of triggers that make your GORD worse. For instance, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, or fatty or hot food. After you recognize any food that activates your symptoms, eliminate them from your diet to see if your symptoms improve.
  • Elevate the head of your bed by putting a piece of wood or blocks underneath it.This might help to decrease your symptoms of GORD. However, make certain that your bed is secure and safe before adding the wood or block. Do not use additional pillows because this might increase the weight on your abdomen.

If you are presently taking medication for other health disorders, check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out whether they might be contributing to your symptoms of GORD. Substitute medicines might be accessible. Do not stop taking a medicine that has been recommended without consulting your doctor first.

Medication

A number of diverse medicines can be used to treat GORD. These consist of:

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.
  • H2-receptor antagonists.
  • Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs).
  • Prokinetics

Over-the-counter (OTC) Medications

A number of over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help to alleviate the symptoms of minor to moderate GORD.

  • Antacids are medications that counteract the effects of stomach acid. Though, antacids should not be consumed at the same time as other medications because they can discontinue other medicines from being appropriately absorbed into your body. They might also harm the special coating on some sorts of tablets. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
  • Alginates are a substitute type of medication to antacids. They work by creating a defensive coating that guards the lining of your belly and oesophagus from the effects of stomach acid.
  • Some PPIs and H2 Receptor antagonists are also obtainable without a prescription from your chemist. These are taken in a lower amount than the ones accessible on prescription. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether these medications are appropriate for you.

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