“What is the treatment for GERD?”
I was diagnosed with GERD. What is the treatment for GERD?
3 Answers
DoctorGastroenterologist
The treatment consists of lifestyle changes and antiacids. Surgery can also be considered in some cases.
Great question—GERD (or acid reflux) can often be well-managed by starting with lifestyle changes and natural remedies before even needing medication. I would consult a provider who prefers homeopathic approaches and lifestyle changes prior to prescribing medication.
First, lifestyle modifications are key and can make a big difference:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fried, fatty, citrus, tomato-based, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Try not to eat 2–3 hours before lying down or going to bed.
- Elevate the head of your bed about 6–8 inches if you have symptoms at night.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as extra pressure on the abdomen can worsen reflux.
- Quit smoking, as it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and makes symptoms worse.
- Manage stress with tools like deep breathing, gentle exercise, or mindfulness, which can improve digestion.
There are also some natural remedies that may help:
- Slippery elm, chamomile, or licorice root (DGL) can soothe and protect the esophagus.
- Aloe vera juice (in small amounts) may reduce inflammation.
- Some people find apple cider vinegar helpful, but it should be used with caution and diluted, as it doesn’t work for everyone.
If these strategies don’t bring enough relief, medications that may help include:
- Antacids (like Tums or Maalox) for fast, short-term relief.
- H2 blockers (like Pepcid) to reduce acid production.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (like Omeprazole) for more long-term control, especially if there’s inflammation or damage to the esophagus.
I would always try the least invasive, most natural options first and adjust as needed depending on your symptoms and lifestyle.
Hope this helps!!
First, lifestyle modifications are key and can make a big difference:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fried, fatty, citrus, tomato-based, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Try not to eat 2–3 hours before lying down or going to bed.
- Elevate the head of your bed about 6–8 inches if you have symptoms at night.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as extra pressure on the abdomen can worsen reflux.
- Quit smoking, as it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and makes symptoms worse.
- Manage stress with tools like deep breathing, gentle exercise, or mindfulness, which can improve digestion.
There are also some natural remedies that may help:
- Slippery elm, chamomile, or licorice root (DGL) can soothe and protect the esophagus.
- Aloe vera juice (in small amounts) may reduce inflammation.
- Some people find apple cider vinegar helpful, but it should be used with caution and diluted, as it doesn’t work for everyone.
If these strategies don’t bring enough relief, medications that may help include:
- Antacids (like Tums or Maalox) for fast, short-term relief.
- H2 blockers (like Pepcid) to reduce acid production.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (like Omeprazole) for more long-term control, especially if there’s inflammation or damage to the esophagus.
I would always try the least invasive, most natural options first and adjust as needed depending on your symptoms and lifestyle.
Hope this helps!!
Usually we trial with antacid, reducing caffeine, NSAIDS (such as advil, motrin), sleeping propped up with pillows
