GERD causes heartburn, regurgitation, and sometimes cough or swallowing problems. Start with lifestyle changes - smaller meals, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding triggers, weight loss, and smoking cessation. Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors help control symptoms; long-term PPI use should be reviewed with a clinician. Endoscopy or reflux testing, surgical fundoplication, or device-based procedures are options when conservative care fails or complications occur.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly called acid reflux, happens when stomach contents back up into the esophagus and irritate its lining. Symptoms range from heartburn and regurgitation to cough, hoarseness, and trouble swallowing.

Reflux in infants

Many infants show brief, harmless spit-up episodes (physiologic reflux) that usually resolve by 12-18 months as the digestive tract matures. More persistent vomiting, poor weight gain, breathing problems, or feeding refusal warrant medical evaluation.

First-line steps: lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes are effective for many people and are recommended before long-term medications when possible.
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones.
  • Avoid lying down for 2-3 hours after eating and elevate the head of the bed 6-8 inches if night symptoms occur.
  • Identify and reduce trigger foods: common culprits include high-fat meals, chocolate, mint, citrus, tomato-based foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Individual triggers vary.
  • Stop smoking and avoid heavy alcohol intake.
  • Lose weight if overweight and avoid tight clothing around the abdomen.
  • Wait to exercise until at least an hour after eating.

Medications: options and considerations

Over-the-counter antacids neutralize acid and relieve occasional symptoms but can contain significant sodium and provide only short-term relief. H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) reduce acid production for mild to moderate symptoms. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most effective drugs for healing esophagitis and controlling chronic symptoms.

Long-term PPI use is common but should be regularly reviewed with a clinician. Observational studies have linked prolonged PPI use to risks such as nutrient deficiencies, kidney disease, bone fracture risk, and certain infections; the absolute risks are generally small, and causal links are not proven. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration and discuss stopping or stepping down therapy with your clinician.

When procedures or surgery are considered

If lifestyle changes and medications do not control symptoms, or if complications like severe esophagitis, strictures, or Barrett's esophagus develop, further evaluation (endoscopy, pH or impedance testing, and manometry) is appropriate. Surgical fundoplication remains an option for selected patients. Less invasive device-based options such as magnetic sphincter augmentation are also available for some people; a specialist can explain risks and benefits.

When to see a doctor

See a clinician for persistent heartburn despite lifestyle changes, difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, recurrent vomiting, or any alarm symptoms (blood in stool or vomit). Early evaluation can prevent complications and help tailor treatment.

FAQs about Acid Reflux

How long should I try lifestyle changes before taking prescription medication?
If symptoms are mild and not affecting sleep or daily life, try lifestyle changes for several weeks. See a clinician sooner if symptoms are frequent, severe, or there are alarm signs like difficulty swallowing or weight loss.
Are proton pump inhibitors safe long term?
PPIs are effective for healing and symptom control, but long-term use should be regularly reviewed. Observational studies have linked PPIs to small increased risks (nutrient deficiencies, kidney issues, infections), so doctors usually recommend the lowest effective dose and periodic reassessment.
Will infant reflux go away on its own?
Most infants with simple spit-up grow out of reflux by 12-18 months as their digestive system matures. Persistent vomiting, poor weight gain, breathing problems, or feeding refusal should prompt medical evaluation.
When is surgery for GERD recommended?
Surgery or device-based procedures are considered when medical therapy fails, when patients prefer to avoid lifelong medication, or when complications like strictures or severe esophagitis occur. A gastroenterologist and surgeon can discuss individualized options.
Can certain foods or behaviors trigger reflux?
Yes. Common triggers include large or high-fat meals, chocolate, mint, citrus, tomato-based foods, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and lying down soon after eating. Identifying personal triggers helps reduce symptoms.

News about Acid Reflux

Major new study aims to improve surgery options for acid reflux patients - University of Oxford [Visit Site | Read More]

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YouTuber Alfie Deyes shocked to discover his acid reflux problem is actually a rare swallowing disorder which affects 12 in 100,000 people - Daily Mail [Visit Site | Read More]

The nine acid reflux foods to avoid – and two that soothe heartburn - The Telegraph [Visit Site | Read More]

Can Olive Oil Help (or Trigger) Acid Reflux? - Everyday Health [Visit Site | Read More]

The hidden dangers of late dinners: From acid reflux to heart disease - The Economic Times [Visit Site | Read More]

J&J to withdraw acid reflux device from certain markets outside US - Yahoo [Visit Site | Read More]