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What is acid reflux (GERD)?
It is when stomach contents leak back into your food pipe (esophagus). Reflux now and then is common; it is called GERD when frequent and bothersome.1,2
Common symptoms
1Heartburn: a burning pain in your chest
2Food coming back up (regurgitation)
3Feeling sick (nausea) after eating
4Cough or wheezing
5A hoarse or changed voice
6Symptoms may be worse when bending, lying down, after eating, or at night
Common causes
- A muscle ring at the bottom of the food pipe does not close fully1
- Being overweight, a hiatal hernia, or pregnancy1
- Smoking, or lying down soon after eating1
- Some medicines. Never stop a medicine before asking your doctor1
How it is treated
Treatment starts with lifestyle changes. Antacids give short-term relief. Other medicines lower stomach acid and give longer relief. Surgery may be an option if symptoms do not go away.1
What you can do each day
- Avoid foods that bother you, and caffeine like coffee, tea and chocolate2
- Avoid alcohol and smoking2
- Eat smaller meals more often, and avoid late-night snacks2
- Eat dinner some hours before bed, and stay upright after eating1,2
- Raise the head of your bed with blocks or a wedge, not just pillows1,2
- If you are overweight, losing weight often helps1
Most people get better with lifestyle changes and medicines.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.1
The printed version has space to write your dose and your next appointment.