Introduction – Acid Reflux How To Get Rid Of It

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back up into the esophagus. This backwash of acid can irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. If left untreated, acid reflux can damage the esophagus and even lead to esophageal cancer in some cases. Thankfully, there are many ways to get rid of acid reflux through lifestyle changes, medications, home remedies, and professional treatment. In this article, I’ll walk through the various options for relieving acid reflux as a fellow acid reflux sufferer.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes abnormally, allowing stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. The esophagus is not protected against acid like the stomach lining, so this reflux action can irritate the esophageal tissue and cause uncomfortable symptoms. Certain foods, lifestyle factors, and medical conditions can trigger or worsen acid reflux.

Symptoms of acid reflux

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Heartburn – a burning discomfort usually in the center of the chest
• Regurgitation – a perception of acid backing up into the throat or mouth
• Bitter or sour taste in the mouth
• Excessive burping
• Chest pain
• Chronic cough
• Laryngitis
• Disrupted sleep
• Difficulty swallowing

If you experience any of these acid reflux symptoms more than twice a week, it’s a sign you may have GERD and should see a doctor. Untreated GERD can lead to complications like ulcerations, strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, and cancer of the esophagus.

Lifestyle changes to reduce acid reflux

Certain lifestyle factors and habits can exacerbate acid reflux. Making changes in these areas can help get rid of acid reflux symptoms without medication in some cases.

Losing weight

Excess body weight puts extra pressure on the stomach and can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing acid to reflux up. Losing weight can help relieve this pressure. Aim to reach and maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Even losing just 10% of your body weight can make a big difference in acid reflux symptoms.

Weight loss can lead to resolution of gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms: a prospective intervention trial – This study from the journal “Obesity,” examines the impact of weight loss on GERD symptoms, offering evidence that managing weight can be a significant step in controlling acid reflux.

Avoiding trigger foods

Certain foods are common triggers for acid reflux symptoms. Avoiding these foods can reduce reflux episodes:

• Fatty and fried foods
• Spicy foods
• Garlic and onions
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Tomato-based foods
• Chocolate

Try tracking when your symptoms occur and see if you can pinpoint particular trigger foods. Eliminating those foods from your diet may provide relief.

Eating smaller meals

Large, heavy meals fill the stomach and put increased pressure on the esophageal sphincter. This can promote reflux after eating. Instead, opt for smaller, more frequent meals to reduce acid production and reflux. Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.

Avoiding alcohol and smoking

Alcohol can directly irritate the esophageal lining. It also relaxes the esophageal sphincter muscles, enabling reflux. Quit smoking, as it also lowers sphincter pressure and can provoke reflux.

Elevating the head when sleeping

Let gravity help keep acid down in the stomach while you sleep. Prop up your head 4-6 inches by placing blocks under the bedposts or sleeping on an incline with extra pillows. Avoid eating for at least 3 hours before lying down.

Medications for acid reflux

If lifestyle adjustments aren’t helping enough with your acid reflux, several types of over-the-counter and prescription medications can provide relief.

Antacids

Antacids like Tums, Rolaids, and Mylanta neutralize stomach acid and provide rapid but short-term relief. Some also contain simethicone to reduce foaming and bloating. Avoid overusing antacids as they can cause side effects like constipation and kidney stones.

H2 blockers

H2 blockers (Tagamet, Zantac, Pepcid) reduce acid production for longer relief lasting up to 12 hours. These may take a couple days to begin working fully but can be taken proactively before meals.

Proton pump inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix) shut off acid pumps in stomach cells for the most potent acid reduction. These provide 24-hour relief but may take several days to kick in. Long-term use can interfere with nutrient absorption.

Only use PPIs or H2 blockers under a doctor’s guidance. Stopping them abruptly can cause rebound reflux.

Home remedies for acid reflux

Some natural, at-home remedies may also calm acid reflux symptoms. They can be used alongside other treatments. Discuss trying these options with your doctor first.

Baking soda

Dissolve 1/2 tsp baking soda in 4 oz water and drink to neutralize acid. Don’t over use this remedy as it contains high sodium.

Aloe vera

Pure aloe vera gel has soothing properties. Drink up to 1/3 cup before meals. Avoid ingesting if you have diabetes or swallowing issues.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar increases stomach acidity, which helps close the esophageal sphincter. Mix 1-2 tbsp in water and drink before a meal.

Ginger

Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties may aid acid reflux. Drink ginger tea or chew raw ginger before meals.

Licorice

DGL licorice supplements may increase mucus production and help protect the esophageal lining. Use sparingly under medical guidance.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if lifestyle changes and other remedies don’t improve your acid reflux after 2 weeks. Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain radiating to jaw, neck or arm
• Frequent vomiting
• Bleeding or black stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Trouble swallowing

These signs can indicate complications and more serious conditions requiring evaluation. Your doctor will perform tests to diagnose GERD and check for complications before determining the most suitable treatment options. These may include prescription medications or even laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery in severe cases.

Conclusion

Acid reflux can significantly diminish quality of life when left unchecked. The good news is you have many options to get relief at home through diet and lifestyle changes. When home remedies aren’t enough, over-the-counter or prescription medications can target acid production more potently. See a doctor if symptoms persist or you experience any concerning complications. With a proactive treatment approach, most people can successfully manage their acid reflux and prevent further damage to the esophagus.

FAQs

1. What is the quickest way to get rid of acid reflux?
   The fastest relief comes from taking an over-the-counter antacid like Tums or Rolaids. These begin neutralizing stomach acid within minutes to relieve acute symptoms.
2. What foods neutralize stomach acid?
   Bland, low-acid foods are less likely to cause reflux. Good options include oatmeal, bananas, eggs, chicken breast, honey, yogurt, and steamed vegetables.
3. How can I get rid of acid reflux permanently?
   Making long-term diet and lifestyle changes offers the best chance to control acid reflux permanently. Losing weight, avoiding trigger foods, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and not eating before bed make a big difference for most people.
4. When should you see a doctor for acid reflux?
   See your doctor if symptoms persist after trying home remedies and antacids for 2 weeks. Also seek immediate medical care if you have difficulty breathing, swallowing, chest pain, vomiting, or bleeding. These can indicate complications.
5. What natural remedies help with acid reflux?
   Some popular natural remedies to try under medical supervision include aloe vera, ginger, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and licorice. These may help soothe symptoms but work best alongside diet and medication adjustments.