How to Treat Acid Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease tends to occur more often in people over the age of 40, but the condition can affect individuals of any age, according to the University of Florida College of Medicine. Also known as acid reflux, this condition occurs when stomach acid jumps into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. It also has the potential to produce symptoms such as nausea, dry cough and bloating. Fortunately, a variety of strategies can be implemented to achieve relief from acid reflux.

Lifestyle Changes

In many cases, you can avoid or reduce acid reflux by changing your eating habits. For example, eat more slowly while reducing the sizes of your meals. In addition, keep track of the foods that cause you heartburn. If you notice chest discomfort after eating foods that contain citrus or caffeine, cut them from your diet. It's also important to not lie down immediately after eating because that can agitate your stomach acid. By losing excess weight, or quitting smoking or drinking, you'll find many physical benefits, including a reduced risk of acid reflux.

Over-the-Counter Drugs

Over-the-counter drugs, such as antacids and acid reducers, will help to alleviate your acid reflux discomfort. Antacids such as Milk of Magnesia, Pepto-Bismol and Alka-Seltzer, can reduce excess gas while dulling the acidity of chemicals in your stomach. However, side-effects of these drugs can include constipation or diarrhea, so don't go overboard. On the other hand, acid reducers control the actual production of stomach acid. These drugs include Axid AR, Zantac 75 and Tagamet HB.

Prescription Drugs

If your acid reflux seems to be reoccurring several times a week, seek advice from your doctor. One possible solution is the use of prescription drugs. Histamine-2 blockers, such as Zantac, Kapidex and Dexilant, are taken before meals and bedtime to reduce acid reflux. Proton pump inhibitors, on the other hand, can reduce acidic activity within the stomach for a longer length of time than histamine-2 blockers. Proton pump inhibitors include Nexium, Prevacid and Kapidex.

GERD Surgery

Persistent acid reflux might call for GERD surgery. After undergoing endoscopy to assess the esophagus muscles, a patient is then ready for a procedure such as fundoplication. This surgical process involves a tightening of the esophagus to hinder the movement of stomach acid. Less invasive options, such as radio frequency treatments, are also an option, although they may be less effective.