If you suffer from acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. The burning sensation in your chest and throat can be debilitating and affect your daily activities. If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, consulting the best Cypress gastroenterologist can provide you with the right treatment to relieve your symptoms. In addition, there are ways to relieve acid reflux symptoms without relying on medication. Here are effective ways to manage your acid reflux symptoms.
Eat smaller and more frequent meals
One of the main triggers of acid reflux is overeating or eating large meals. When you eat a large meal, your stomach stretches, putting pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. This pressure can cause the LES to open, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. To prevent this, eat smaller portions more often throughout the day. This will help to keep your stomach from feeling overly full and exerting pressure on the LES.
Avoid trigger foods
Certain foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms. These include spicy meals, fatty foods, candy, coffee, and alcohol. If you notice that these foods cause your symptoms to worsen, try to avoid them. However, this does not mean you have to eliminate them from your diet completely, but you should limit your intake and try to eat them in moderation.
Elevate your head while sleeping
When you lie down, gravity can cause stomach acid to flow back into your esophagus, causing acid reflux symptoms. Thus, try elevating your head while you sleep. You can do this by placing a wedge pillow under your upper body or blocks under your bed’s head. Elevating your head will help keep the acid in your stomach and prevent it from flowing back into your esophagus.
Chew gum
Chewing gum can help relieve acid reflux symptoms by increasing saliva production. Saliva can help neutralize stomach acid and wash it back into your stomach. It also helps to keep your esophagus clear of any acid that may have already flowed back up. So, if you are experiencing acid reflux symptoms, try chewing on a piece of gum for about 30 minutes after a meal.
Stop smoking if you smoke
Smoking lowers saliva production and weakens the efficiency of the valve that stops stomach acid from entering the esophagus, increasing the likelihood of heartburn. Stopping smoking can decrease the frequency and extent of acid reflux and, in some cases, completely eradicate it.
Practice stress-reducing activities
Stress can also be a trigger for acid reflux symptoms. When you are stressed, your body produces more stomach acid, exacerbating your symptoms. Try practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help manage your stress and reduce your symptoms. These activities can help calm your mind and body, reducing your stress levels and helping to prevent acid reflux symptoms.
Consult your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen, as they may recommend additional treatment options. Call GastroDoxs PLLC to book your appointment for acid reflux treatment.
