Treatment of Acid Reflux

1. Modification in life style can help control acid reflux. Avoiding food and drinks that increase acidity levels in the stomach helps. Overeating also causes the acid in the stomach to get pushed into the esophagus. Eating smaller meals more frequently is better than eating large portions  only two times a day.

 

2. Stop smoking.

 

3. Lose weight

 

4. Raise the head of the bed a little to keep the stomach at a lower level than the head. This prevents the flow of acid into the esophagus due to gravity. Using an adjustable bed can therefore help avoiding acid reflux.

 

5. Use of antacids

Two types of antacids are sold in the market to treat heart burn or acid reflux. One that neutralizes the acidity in the stomach. The second type blocks the formation of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

 

The first type is instanteous but may have side effects if taken long term because of the production of salt when the acid is neutralized in the stomach. People with kidney disease or a history of heart failure in the family should take this medication only under medical supervision.

 

The second type that prevents the formation of acid in the first place takes longer to provide relief. The acid that is already present in the stomach can cause heart burn even after taking the medication.