Acid reflux is a common condition that millions of Americans suffer from. When the muscular valve (lower esophageal sphincter) that separates the stomach from the esophagus doesn’t function properly, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus causing unpleasant symptoms. Symptoms can include a burning sensation in the chest, sore throat, coughing, nausea, hoarseness, or a bad taste in your mouth. If you’ve ever experienced these symptoms then you understand the need for relief.
If you suffer from acid reflux symptoms here are 7 ways you can try to alleviate the symptoms:
- Eat slowly- Take your time when you eat so your body has time to digest the food.
- Eat smaller meals- Resist the urge to overeat. When your stomach is full, it's easier for stomach contents to reflux back into the esophagus.
- Avoid trigger foods- Foods that are likely to trigger symptoms are fatty foods, spicy foods, and highly acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and coffee. Limit or avoid carbonated beverages and alcohol. Keep a food journal so you can keep track of foods that cause acid reflux.
- Stay sitting up after eating- After eating, give your body 3 hours to digest food before laying down.
- Maintain a healthy weight- Lose weight through diet and exercise if advised by your doctor. Excess weight increases the pressure on the muscular valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus allowing stomach acid to reflux easily.
- Stop smoking- Nicotine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter causing the stomach acid to leak freely.
- Monitor Medications: Talk with your doctor about any medications you’re taking. Some medications can contribute to reflux.
Many people experience acid reflux regularly, in fact, at least 15 million people experience symptoms daily. If you find yourself chronically suffering from acid reflux you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD). Talk with a doctor about treatment options. Dr. Ahmad has a wealth of experience in treating acid reflux and can give you a precise diagnosis and treatment plan. Call and make an appointment today!
1. https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/weight- loss
Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in laparoscopic robotic surgery and has performed over 3,500 laparoscopic robotic surgeries. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success. Dr. Ashley Modica joins Long Island Laparoscopic Surgery to perform body contouring surgery for patients after successful weight loss following bariatric surgery.
