If you frequently feel the burning sensation in your chest that's the hallmark sign of acid reflux, you need relief. If you experience these symptoms occasionally, you have gastroesophageal reflux. But, up to 20% of people in the United States experience acid reflux chronically and are diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs can help. He sees patients with acid reflux often and recommends at-home remedies to help relieve symptoms.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises up out of your stomach back into your esophagus, the muscular tube that connects your mouth to your stomach.
The esophagus has a valve - called the esophageal sphincter - that, when relaxed, allows food to pass through to your stomach. It contracts to prevent food and stomach acid from flowing back up.
If the valve operates incorrectly, food travels back into your esophagus, causing acid reflux. You'll experience burning in your chest, a bitter taste in your mouth, and uncomfortable sensations up toward your throat.
Of course, chronic acid reflux can signal an underlying condition or be a side effect of certain medications. Usually, however, acid reflux is a result of lifestyle habits and diet.
Many people find that certain foods trigger acid reflux. The list of trigger foods is long and unique to you, but some common culprits include spicy foods, fried foods, and carbonated beverages.
Keep a diary to figure out which foods are triggers for you. Once you identify the foods, avoid them as much as possible.
Manage your portion sizes and eat slowly. When you put a lot of food in your stomach quickly, it puts more pressure on the valve that releases acid back up in your chest and throat. Eat until you're satisfied, but not stuffed. You may choose to have several small meals a day rather than two or three large meals.
When you lie down with a full stomach, it triggers acid reflux. Have your last meal of the day within three hours of bedtime so your stomach has time to digest the food. Avoid napping right after a meal; maybe take a walk instead.
Tight belts and compressive clothing can put extra pressure on your belly, triggering acid reflux. Choose loose-fitting clothing to help you stay comfortable.
Prop your head and chest higher than your feet when you sleep. Place a block under your bed posts or lodge a foam wedge under your mattress. Using pillows to prop up may actually make symptoms worse.
If you're overweight or obese, you're at an increased risk of GERD. We can help you lose weight with diet and exercise. Even a few pounds can help alleviate pressure on your stomach.
If at-home strategies don't give you much relief and you experience acid reflux frequently, come see a skilled gastroenterologist like Dr. Pothuri. Without treatment, GERD can lead to complications like esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and other health problems. Dr. Pothuri can help you with dietary changes, medications, and, in some cases, surgery or other medical interventions.
If you're in the Greater Houston area, contact us to set up an evaluation. Call today or book an appointment online.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Common symptoms of acid reflux include heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, chest discomfort, bloating, nausea, and a chronic cough, especially after eating or lying down.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes like eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and not lying down after eating. Medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors may also help.
For quick relief, take an antacid, drink water, or chew sugar-free gum to neutralize stomach acid. Elevating the head while sleeping and avoiding acidic foods can also provide fast relief.
Eat alkaline and non-acidic foods like bananas, oatmeal, ginger, leafy greens, lean proteins, and non-citrus fruits. Avoid spicy, fatty, and fried foods that can trigger reflux.
Drinking warm water may aid digestion and soothe the esophagus, but extremely hot water can worsen symptoms. It's best to drink warm herbal teas like ginger or chamomile for relief.
