Acid Reflux is a disorder in which a variety of commonly experienced symptoms can add up and result in having the condition itself. Symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, belching, regurgitation, constant hiccups, dysphasia (sensation of food stuck in the throat), and nausea are all standard experiences for those suffering from acid reflux, or GERD. Needless to say, these symptoms are unpleasant and can affect a person’s normal daily routine, especially how they enjoy food. In order to help ease these symptoms, we have compiled a list of five ways to beat acid reflux:
Sleep on your left side, elevated
Studies on those who experience acid reflux have found that sleeping on your left side can help relieve symptoms. This is because when you sleep on your left side as opposed to your right or your stomach, you’re decreasing the amount of pressure that can cause your symptoms. Sleeping on the left side of the body is a common step advised for pregnant women in particular if they should experience acid reflux. Also, consider using an extra pillow to help elevate your head, this has also been shown to cut back on symptoms.
Grab a stick of gum
Chewing gum increases the amount of saliva your mouth produces, and this saliva can help to breakdown acid levels in the esophagus.
Quit smoking
Smoking does nothing to improve your overall health to begin with, so the fact that quitting smoking can help relieve acid reflux symptoms is really just an added bonus. Quit smoking today and among other benefits, you could notice a decrease in acid reflux symptoms.
Decrease the size of your meals
If a meal is particularly acidic, it can easily cause a swift increase in acid reflux symptoms; however, the size of each meal should also be considered. Patients are encouraged to eat smaller meals throughout the day – consider having 5 small meals a day instead of three large meals. Decreasing the size of your dinner in particular can help relieve nighttime reflux symptoms that may keep you from sleeping. Lastly, try not to eat 2-3 hours before going to sleep.
Avoid tight fitting clothing
Clothing that is tight or fitted tightly with a belt can contribute to acid reflux symptoms. Besides the fact that general discomfort is likely to exist when a belt is looped too tightly or pants are a bit too small, tight fitted clothing can also increase pressure on the stomach and esophagus (a tightly wound tie). Give yourself some room and wear clothing that fits you comfortably. If weight gain is the reason for ill-fitting clothing, then relief from acid reflux symptoms can be an added bonus for dropping the excess weight.
If you’ve taken all of these steps and are still suffering from acid reflux symptoms, it’s time to reach out to your doctor and discuss treatment options. Contact one of the highly knowledgable physicians at InSite Digestive Health Care and make an appointment to talk about your symptoms.
