Subtitle Forum: How to Reduce or Relieve Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a common digestive disorder that occurs when acids in your stomach back up into the esophagus. This can cause a burning sensation in your chest, known as heartburn, as well as other symptoms including regurgitation, coughing, and difficulty swallowing. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce or relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.
Dietary Changes
Making dietary changes is one of the most effective ways to reduce or relieve acid reflux symptoms. Eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding foods that trigger your symptoms, and avoiding eating late at night can all help reduce the occurrence of acid reflux. Additionally, avoiding fatty and spicy foods, alcohol, and chocolate can also help.
Medications
Over-the-counter antacids and other medications can help reduce or relieve acid reflux symptoms. Antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide short-term relief, while other medications, such as H2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors, can help decrease the production of stomach acid and provide longer-term relief.
Lifestyle Changes
Making some lifestyle changes can also help reduce or relieve acid reflux symptoms. For example, avoiding tight-fitting clothes, quitting smoking, and avoiding stress can all help. Additionally, elevating your head while sleeping by using extra pillows can help keep stomach acid from backing up into your esophagus.
Natural Remedies
There are also several natural remedies that may help reduce or relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. For instance, drinking a mixture of baking soda and water can help neutralize stomach acid, while drinking herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, and licorice root can help reduce inflammation and soothe the digestive tract. Additionally, eating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
By making changes to your diet, taking medications, making lifestyle changes, and trying natural remedies, you can reduce or relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. However, if your symptoms do not improve or are worsening, it is important to talk to your doctor.