Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, and a sour taste in the mouth. While acid reflux can be uncomfortable and even painful, there are several steps you can take to get rid of it.
Make lifestyle changes
One of the most effective ways to get rid of acid reflux is to make lifestyle changes that can help reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms.
These changes include:
Eating smaller, more frequent meals: Large meals can put more pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach. This can cause acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
Avoiding trigger foods: Certain foods, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, and citrus fruits, can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods trigger your acid reflux, so you can avoid them.
Avoiding tight clothing: Tight clothing, especially around the waist, can put pressure on the abdomen and lead to acid reflux.
Quitting smoking: Smoking can weaken the LES and increase the risk of acid reflux.
Losing weight: Carrying excess weight, especially around the waist, can increase the risk of acid reflux. Losing weight through a healthy diet and exercise can help reduce your risk.
Avoiding lying down after eating: When you lie down after eating, gravity is no longer helping to keep the food and acid in your stomach. This can increase the risk of acid reflux. If you must lay down after eating, try laying down or sleeping with your head raised. You can either raise the head of your bed with bricks or books. Or try a bed wedge.
Medications
There are several medications that can help get rid of acid reflux.
These include:
Antacids: Antacids neutralize stomach acid, providing quick relief from heartburn and indigestion. They are available over the counter in the form of tablets, liquids, and chewable tablets.
H2 blockers: H2 blockers, also known as histamine receptor antagonists, reduce the production of stomach acid. They are available over the counter and by prescription.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are the most effective medications for acid reflux. They work by blocking the enzyme that produces stomach acid. They are available by prescription and over the counter.
Natural remedies
There are also several natural remedies that may help get rid of acid reflux.
These include:
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce acid reflux symptoms. You can consume ginger in the form of ginger tea, ginger candies, or add it to your meals.
Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera has a number of medicinal properties, including reducing inflammation and neutralizing stomach acid. You can consume aloe vera in the form of juice or add it to your meals.
Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is believed to have a number of health benefits, including reducing acid reflux symptoms. You can mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it before meals.
Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help reduce acid reflux symptoms by increasing saliva production and neutralizing stomach acid.
Surgery
If lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to get rid of acid reflux, surgery may be necessary. The most common surgical treatment for acid reflux is the Nissen Fundoplication, in which the top part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen it and prevent acid reflux. Other surgical options include the LINX procedure, in which a ring of small magnetic beads is placed around the LES to keep it closed, and the transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), in which the LES is repaired through the mouth without the need for incisions.
It's important to note that surgery should only be considered as a last resort, and you should discuss all of your options with your doctor before making a decision.
In conclusion, there are several steps you can take to get rid of acid reflux, including making lifestyle changes, taking medications, trying natural remedies, and in some cases, surgery. It's important to work with your doctor to find the treatment plan that works best for you and to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your acid reflux. With the right treatment, you can find relief from acid reflux and live a more comfortable, symptom-free life.