| If you have symptoms of GERD you should consult your doctor. You should describe your symptoms, explain how troublesome you find them to be, and how they affect your daily life. Your doctor can then confirm the diagnosis and provide you with a treatment plan.
Avoiding factors that make acid reflux worse may help to reduce the symptoms of GERD but is not an alternative to treatment.
You may find it useful to keep a diary of your symptoms and the food you eat, so that you can see which foods affect you.
Avoid eating too close to bedtime. Try to leave at least 2–3 hours after a meal, before you go to bed.
Avoid lying down after meals.
Eat small regular meals.
Do not wear tight clothing which may increase the pressure on your stomach.
Raising the head of your bed by 4–6 inches (10-15 cm) may help reduce night-time acid reflux. |