How to Treat Acid Reflux With Medicine and Lifestyle Changes

Acid reflux is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, often causing symptoms such as heartburn, a sour taste in the mouth, and even a sore throat. If left untreated, frequent acid reflux can develop into gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more severe and chronic condition. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage acid reflux and GERD, including medications and lifestyle changes. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand and treat acid reflux effectively.

Key Takeaways

Understand the Triggers of Acid Reflux

• Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, often caused by overeating, spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, or lying down too soon after eating.

• Smoking and tight clothing can also worsen symptoms by weakening the muscle that keeps stomach acid in place.

Treat Acid Reflux with Medications and Lifestyle Changes

• Medications like PPIs (e.g., Omeprazole) and antacids (e.g., Gaviscon) can provide relief by reducing stomach acid or neutralising it.

• Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and waiting 3 hours before lying down after eating, can significantly reduce symptoms.

Adopt Preventative Habits

• Sleep with your upper body elevated, avoid carbonated drinks, and maintain a healthy weight to minimise pressure on the stomach.

• For persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor to rule out more serious conditions and explore further treatments.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) — a muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus — doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach acid to move upward. This can irritate the lining of your oesophagus and throat.

Common Triggers

• Overeating: A full stomach can push acid upward.

• Spicy or fatty foods: These relax the LES, making reflux more likely.

• Alcohol and caffeine: Both can aggravate symptoms.

• Smoking: Nicotine weakens the LES.

• Lying down after meals: Gravity helps keep acid in the stomach, so lying down too soon can lead to reflux.

How to Treat Acid Reflux

Effective management of acid reflux typically combines medication and lifestyle changes. These approaches can reduce symptoms and help prevent complications.

Medications for Acid Reflux

1. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

• Examples: Omeprazole and Lansoprazole.

• PPIs reduce stomach acid production, giving the oesophagus time to heal.

2. H2 Receptor Blockers

• Examples: Famotidine and Ranitidine.

• These medications also lower stomach acid but work more quickly than PPIs for short-term relief.

3. Antacids

• Examples: Gaviscon and Rennie.

• These provide immediate relief by neutralising stomach acid.

4. Prokinetics

• These help the stomach empty faster, reducing the chance of reflux.

You can purchase effective acid reflux medications online from trusted services like UK Meds. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication.

Lifestyle Changes to Treat Acid Reflux

Making small changes to your daily habits can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux.

1. Eat Smaller Meals

• Large meals can put pressure on your stomach, causing acid to escape into the oesophagus. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.

2. Avoid Trigger Foods

• Common triggers include:

  • Spicy foods

  • Fatty meals

  • Chocolate

  • Mint

  • Coffee and tea

  • Tomatoes

  • Alcohol

3. Don’t Lie Down After Eating

• Wait at least 3 hours after a meal before lying down or going to bed.

4. Sleep on an Incline

• Raise the head of your bed by 15–20 cm or use a foam wedge to keep your upper body elevated. This prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus during sleep.

5. Avoid Carbonated Drinks

• Fizzy drinks can increase pressure in the stomach, making reflux more likely.

6. Lose Excess Weight

• Excess weight can strain the LES, making it less effective. Weight loss medications can help, alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise.

7. Quit Smoking

• Nicotine relaxes the LES and increases acid production. Smoking cessation aids like Zyban can help you quit.

8. Reduce Vigorous Exercise After Eating

• High-intensity workouts can push stomach contents upwards. Opt for light exercises such as walking instead.

Additional Tips for Managing Acid Reflux

• Drink plenty of water: It helps flush acid from the oesophagus.

• Avoid tight clothing: Tight belts or waistbands can put pressure on your stomach.

• Keep a food diary: Identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief, consult a healthcare professional. Persistent symptoms may require further investigation or prescription treatments. Warning signs to watch for include:

• Difficulty swallowing

• Persistent sore throat

• Weight loss without explanation

• Vomiting or blood in stools

Final Thoughts

Acid reflux is uncomfortable but manageable with the right combination of medication and lifestyle changes. By identifying your triggers and making informed adjustments, you can reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms. If symptoms persist, seek advice from a healthcare professional to explore additional treatment options. Taking proactive steps now can help you enjoy a more comfortable, symptom-free life.

More Information

• Medicine for Acid Reflux Treatment

• How to Treat Acid Reflux

• Long Term Omeprazole Use Side Effects

• What is Omeprazole Used For?