Lifestyle changes are the foundation for controlling acid reflux (GERD). Some herbs - ginger, chamomile, slippery elm, DGL licorice, aloe vera, and fennel - may ease symptoms for some people, but evidence is limited. Always discuss supplements with your clinician and seek care for alarm symptoms.
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid reaches the esophagus. Remedies either neutralize acid - like baking soda and antacids - or reduce acid production with H2 blockers and PPIs. Lifestyle changes and medical evaluation matter when symptoms are frequent or severe.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to close properly. Triggers include obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, certain foods, alcohol, smoking, and some medications.
Acid reflux (GERD) is caused by lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction. Start with lifestyle changes, use effective medications under clinical guidance, and consider surgery or devices if symptoms persist.
OTC heartburn products relieve symptoms by neutralizing or reducing acid, but they may only mask recurring problems. See a clinician for frequent or severe symptoms, alarm signs, or when OTCs fail.
Diet, portion timing, and some herbal remedies can reduce acid reflux symptoms. Use smaller meals, avoid personal trigger foods, elevate the head of the bed, and consult a clinician if symptoms are frequent or severe.
Practical, age-by-age guidance on recognizing and managing reflux in infants, children, and adolescents, emphasizing conservative care first and careful use of medications.
An incline (wedge) pillow raises the upper body to use gravity against nighttime acid reflux. Used with dietary and behavioral changes, it can reduce nocturnal GERD symptoms, but it is not a substitute for medical care.
Dietary changes - smaller meals, fewer trigger foods (carbonation, coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, fatty and spicy foods), and lifestyle adjustments - can reduce acid reflux symptoms and often decrease medication needs.
Practical, up-to-date guidance on managing acid reflux (GERD) with diet and lifestyle changes, plus when to seek medical care.
Acid reflux (GERD) results from stomach contents rising into the esophagus. Key causes include LES dysfunction and hiatal hernia, excess acid or bile, delayed stomach emptying, reduced saliva or swallowing, and lifestyle factors. Nighttime reflux worsens because gravity and saliva clearance are reduced.
Heartburn is a burning chest sensation from acid reflux (GERD). Manage it with upright posture after meals, chewing gum, OTC antacids or acid-reducers, and lifestyle changes; see a doctor if symptoms are frequent or alarming.
Infant reflux (GER) causes common spit-up; GERD is reflux with symptoms that affect feeding or breathing. Most babies improve by 12-18 months. Try smaller feeds, upright time after meals, frequent burping, and consult your pediatrician for red flags or if symptoms persist.
GERD (acid reflux) occurs when stomach contents irritate the esophagus. Many cases improve with diet and lifestyle changes; medications and procedural options exist for persistent or complicated disease.
Acid reflux (GERD) causes heartburn, regurgitation, and other symptoms. Persistent reflux can damage the esophagus and can require lifestyle changes, medications, or endoscopy. Seek care for ongoing or alarm symptoms.
Practical, up-to-date guidance on GERD: symptoms to watch for, lifestyle measures that help, medication options (antacids, H2 blockers, PPIs), and when procedural or surgical treatments are appropriate.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes frequent heartburn and regurgitation. Key risks include obesity, hiatal hernia, smoking, and certain foods or medications. Manage GERD with lifestyle changes, OTC antacids, prescription acid-suppressing drugs, and specialist care for persistent or severe cases.