Heartburn-Reflux Disease Information
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Heartburn,commonly a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),can often be effectively managed with a combination of dietary changes,lifestyle modification and medications.
Medications, when taken properly,can play an effective role in the short and long term management of both the symptoms of heartburn and the health consequences of GERD. Proton pump inhibitors(PPIs),such as Prilosec,Prevacid, nexium and Protonix,should ideally be taken 15-30 minutes before the first meal of the day.
Avoiding chocolate,peppermint,fried or fatty foods,caffeine and alcohol may improve GERD symptoms.
Stopping smoking and weight loss both help to improve symptoms.
Health Tip
If You've Got GERD
(HealthDay News) -- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus, often causing a feeling of heartburn.
The Society of Thoracic Surgeons offers these suggestions to help tame GERD symptoms:
- Lose weight. Most people are helped "substantially" when they lose significant weight, the society says.
- Wear loose clothing.
- Eat meals at least several hours before bed time, giving the stomach some time to empty.
- Keep the head of the bed about 6 inches to 8 inches higher than the foot of the bed.
- Steer clear of smoking, high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate and peppermint.
- Talk to your doctor about medications to help control GERD. And while on the subject of medications, ask your doctor if anything you're taking could actually be making your symptoms worse.
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