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Treatment Options

Lifestyle Modifications

Medical Therapy Antireflux Sugery

Lifestyle Modifications

Though scientific evidence is considerably lacking [1], lifestyle modifications are usually the appropriate first step in the treatment array. For mild GERD sufferers with infrequent symptoms, simple dietary and lifestyle changes may offer symptom relief. [2]

Watch your diet: Avoid foods that can trigger symptoms, such as coffee, tea or carbonated beverages; fatty, fried or spicy foods; and citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic, onions, peppermint or chocolate.
Eat small, frequent meals: A large meal takes longer to empty from your stomach and may exert undue pressure on your gastroesophageal valve.
Lose weight: Excess weight can distort normal anatomy and subsequently cause reflux.
Do not recline within 3 hours of eating: When you lay flat, gravity is no longer keeping stomach contents where they belong, making it easier for stomach acid to flow up into your esophagus or throat.
Raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches: Doing so can reduce nighttime reflux episodes. [3]
Stop smoking: Studies show that nicotine weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that controls the gastroesophageal valve. [4]
Avoid alcohol: Alcohol, especially white wine and beer, has been known to induce reflux. [5]
Reduce pressure on the stomach: Too much pressure can squeeze the stomach and increase symptoms. You can reduce pressure on the stomach by maintaining a healthy weight, eating smaller meals and wearing loose-fitting clothes.

It is important to remember that GERD is a chronic condition and that treatment of this disease is a step-wise approach based on symptom severity.

If GERD symptoms affect your life, consult your physician to discuss appropriate treatment.

References:
[1] Meining A, et al. Management of gastroesophageal reflux disease in primary care: results of a survey in 2 areas in Germany. X Gastroenterol 2002 Jan; 40(1): 15-20.
[2] DeVault KR, Castell DO. Updated guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Am J Gastroenterol 2005; 100:190-200.
[3] Johnson LF, DeMeester TR. Evaluation of elevation of the head of the bed, bethanechol, and antacid foam tablets on gastroesophageal reflux. Dig Dis Sci 1981; 26:673-80.
[4] Waring JP, et al. The immediate effects of cessation of cigarette smoking on gastroesophageal reflux. Am J Gastroenterol 1989; 84: 782-6.
[5] Pehl C, Wendl B, Pfeiffer A. White wine and beer induce gstro-esophageal reflux in patients with reflux disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2006; 23: 1581-6.

This site is published by EndoGastric Solutions, Inc., which developed it as an information resource to help increase awareness of GERD-related disorders and the available treatment options. This site is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The contents of the site are for informational purposes only and are intended to be discussed with your physician. Never disregard any advice given to you by your physician or other qualified health care professional. Always seek the advice of a physician or other licensed health care professional regarding any questions you have about your medical conditions and treatments.