It’s another day full of deadlines – with no time for lunch.  You wolf down a candy bar to ease your hunger.  A few minutes later, all you can think about is the fire flaring up inside your chest.  Unfortunately, this is nothing new to you.  You may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (also known as GERD), in which stomach acid feels as if it’s backing up toward your mouth.  A classic symptom of GERD is heartburn, which may also signal other health problems.  But with your health care provider's help, treatment may be simple and effective.

YOUR UPPER DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
When you eat, food travels from your mouth to your stomach through a tube called the esophagus.  Once in your stomach, food is broken down by acids before moving on to your intestines.  Normally, this digestive process runs smoothly and comfortably.  But GERD can interfere.

YOUR MEDICAL EVALUATION
It’s important to find out whether your symptoms are being caused by GERD or by other conditions.  By asking you questions and possibly doing some tests, your provider provider may identify your condition and determine the best type of treatment for you.

History
The more you can tell your provider about your condition and your health background, the better.  Your provider may ask you about the type and severity of your symptoms, along with some questions about eating and sleeping habits that may contribute to your problem.

Physical Exam
Then your provider may do a physical exam.  Often, this will give him/her enough information to begin treatment.  In some cases, additional tests may be needed.

Planning Your Treatment
If you are diagnosed with GERD after your evaluation, your provider will talk to you about the best ways to treat your condition.  This will usually involve simple lifestyle changes and may involve medications.  Surgery is rarely needed.

RELIEF THROUGH LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Simple lifestyle changes are often the best way to control GERD.  From what you eat, to how you move, think about the following aspects of your life and talk with your provider about how some of these suggestions could help control or prevent your symptoms.

Watch Your Eating Habits
You might be surprised at the food that can lead to reflux.  Pay attention to what you’re eating and drinking.  Avoid things that irritate your stomach or cause pain.

Don’t lie down right after you eat.  Wait at least a few hours – this gives your stomach time to clear out.

Beware of Smoking and Drinking
Smoking and drinking alcohol can worsen the symptoms of GERD.  Tobacco increases the acidity in your stomach and weakens the LES pressure.  Alcohol opens up the LES.  Try avoiding both and see if your condition improves.

Raise Your Head
Reflux is more likely to strike when you’re lying down flat because stomach fluid can flow backward more easily.  Try raising the head of your bed by 6-10 inches.  Slide blocks or books under the legs at the head of your bed, or place a wedge under the mattress.  Tilting the whole bed works better than trying to sleep on several pillows (which increases abdominal pressure and can actually make GERD worse).

RELIEF THROUGH MEDICATIONS
You may need more than lifestyle changes to control your GERD symptoms.  Your provider may recommend certain medications that can reduce stomach acid and improve your digestive system.  You should also talk with your provider about medications that should be avoided if you have GERD.

Types of Medications
Over-the-Counter: Antacids temporarily coat the stomach and decrease acidity.  Some antacids are combined with alginic acid -  this may provide an extra layer of protection over the stomach fluid.

Prescription: If dietary and lifestyle  modifications do not control your symptoms, your provider may prescribe medication for you.

Medications to Avoid
If you have GERD, be sure to check with your provider before using aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen.  These medications can irritate the lining of your stomach and worsen GERD symptoms.  Talk with him or her about other prescription medications that can worsen GERD.