GERD is the repeated reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus causing heartburn, regurgitation, and sometimes cough or hoarseness. Start with lifestyle changes (smaller meals, trigger avoidance, weight loss, head-of-bed elevation) and OTC remedies for mild symptoms. H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors are mainstays for more frequent or severe reflux; long-term PPI use should be overseen by a clinician. For refractory disease or complications, surgical fundoplication or magnetic sphincter augmentation may be considered.

What GERD (acid reflux) is

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Typical symptoms include heartburn (a burning chest sensation), regurgitation of sour fluid, chronic cough, hoarseness or a sensation of a lump in the throat. Because chest pain can also signal heart problems, new or severe chest pain should be evaluated urgently.

First-line self-care and lifestyle steps

Many people reduce symptoms with nonprescription measures. Key changes include:
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid heavy meals close to bedtime.
  • Avoid trigger foods and drinks (for many people: high-fat meals, chocolate, caffeine, spicy foods, citrus, tomato-based products, and alcohol). Individual triggers vary.
  • Stop smoking and cut back on alcohol.
  • Lose weight if overweight; modest weight loss often helps.
  • Avoid lying down for two to three hours after eating and raise the head of the bed by 6-8 inches to use gravity while sleeping.
  • Avoid tight belts and garments that compress the abdomen.
These measures are effective for mild to moderate symptoms and are safe to start on your own.

Over-the-counter and prescription medicines

Antacids (calcium carbonate or magnesium/aluminum combinations) provide quick, short-term symptom relief. H2 receptor blockers (like famotidine) reduce acid production and can help episodic reflux. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs, such as omeprazole and esomeprazole) are the most effective medicines for frequent or erosive reflux and are commonly used for short courses or as longer maintenance therapy when needed.

Long-term PPI use should be supervised by a clinician; they are effective but require periodic review to confirm ongoing need and to monitor for potential side effects.

When to see a doctor

See a clinician if you have:
  • New, severe, or persistent symptoms despite lifestyle measures and OTC medicines
  • Difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, persistent vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, or anemia
A doctor may recommend tests (endoscopy, pH testing, or manometry) or adjust medications.

Advanced treatments: procedures and surgery

For people whose symptoms do not respond to medical therapy or who have complications (like esophageal injury), procedural options exist. Surgical fundoplication (commonly laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication) restores the barrier between stomach and esophagus. Magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX) is a less-invasive, laparoscopic option available in many centers.

Endoscopic approaches (for example, transoral incisionless fundoplication) are also used selectively; their benefits vary by patient and procedure.

Surgery or devices are considered when medical management and lifestyle changes fail or when complications arise. Your gastroenterologist and surgeon will weigh risks and benefits for your situation.

Bottom line

Most people with GERD improve with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter treatments, and - when needed - prescription acid suppression. Persistent, severe, or worrying symptoms deserve medical evaluation so appropriate testing and advanced therapies can be considered.

FAQs about Acid Reflux Treatment

What is the quickest way to relieve heartburn at home?
Antacids (like calcium carbonate) provide rapid, short-term relief by neutralizing stomach acid. They help symptoms but don't treat underlying reflux when it is frequent.
When should I see a doctor for acid reflux?
See a clinician for new or severe chest pain, difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, vomiting blood or black stools, anemia, or if symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and OTC medicines.
Are proton pump inhibitors safe long term?
PPIs are effective for controlling acid and healing esophageal injury. Long-term use should be reviewed by a clinician to confirm ongoing need and to manage potential risks; many patients use them safely under medical supervision.
Can changing my diet stop acid reflux?
Dietary adjustments (smaller meals, avoiding personal trigger foods, reducing fat and alcohol) often reduce symptoms and are an important part of management, but they may not eliminate reflux for everyone.
What surgical options exist if medicines don’t work?
Surgical fundoplication (usually laparoscopic Nissen) and magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX) are established options. Endoscopic procedures are available in selected patients. Surgery is typically reserved for people who don't respond to medical therapy or who develop complications.