Acid Reflux (GERD Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
You might experience a few of the following signs: Burning sensation in stomach Burning sensation behind breast bone Burning sensation in back of throat Burping of burning fluid or sour taste in mouth Stomach contents moving up the throat Nausea/vomiting Symptoms occur after meals Symptoms occur when lying down or bending over Excessive saliva (watery mouth) HOW TO TREAT ACID REFLUX -AKA GERD Treatment for uncomplicated acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. These may include: Avoiding foods and drinks that can aggravate acid reflux, such as fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals Waiting at least 3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed Losing weight if you are overweight or obese Wearing loose-fitting clothing Avoiding tight waistbands, belts or clothing that put pressure on the abdomen Over-the-counter antacids, such as Tums, Rolaids, PeptoBismol, AlkaSelzter which can neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief Over-the-counter H2 receptor antagonists, such as famotidine (Pepcid® or Pepcid Complete®) , which can reduce stomach acid production and provide longer-lasting relief Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as esomeprazole (Nexium® 20mg), which can also reduce stomach acid production and provide longer-lasting relief If these measures do not provide relief, Mister Pharmacist may recommend additional treatments such as prescription-strength medications (Nexium® 40mg, Prevacid, Dexilant). If insufficient to help in 2-4 weeks, your doctor should be consulted and could potentially add prokinetics (drugs that help to strengthen the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus) or in some cases surgery. It’s important to see a doctor if you have persistent symptoms, difficulty swallowing, or the current treatments have not been effective. Red Flags that should highly encourage you to see a doctor Severe symptoms interfering with daily activities Pain in chest, shoulder, neck, arm Shortness of breath or sweating Difficulty swallowing or severe pain when swallowing Repeated vomiting, bloody/black vomit, &/or unexplained weight loss Dark/black or tarry bowel movements Chronic coughing, choking, wheezing, hoarse throat, sore throat, or throat clearing Dizziness, fatigue, pale skin, cold hands/feet Immediate family member has had a cancer of the gastrointestinal tract/digestive system Abnormal growth or swelling in stomach History of H. Pylori infection