Managing Chronic Heartburn/GERD
A step-by-step guide to control and manage chronic heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) through lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medication. It enables individuals to minimize symptoms and improve quality of life.
Step 1: Lifestyle Changes
Implement lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms:
- Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes.
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid lying down after eating and try to eat at least 3 hours before bedtime.
- Exercise regularly but avoid exercises that increase abdominal pressure shortly after eating.
Step 2: Dietary Adjustments
Alter your diet to avoid triggers and reduce acid reflux:
- Reduce intake of fatty and fried foods.
- Limit or avoid acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes.
- Decrease consumption of chocolate, caffeine, and peppermint.
- Cut back on spicy foods.
- Reduce alcohol intake.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones.
Step 3: Medication Management
Consult with a healthcare provider for the appropriate medication regimen:
- Use over-the-counter antacids for immediate relief.
- Consider H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for longer-term management.
- Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
- Report any adverse effects or lack of symptom improvement to your provider.
General Notes
Consult a Doctor
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or if you experience worsening symptoms.
Monitoring Progress
Keep a symptom diary to track triggers and response to treatments, which can be useful information for healthcare appointments.
Regular Follow-up
Schedule regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to review the effectiveness of the management strategy and make any necessary adjustments.