How to Get Rid of Acid Reflux
Jake Newby
| 4 min read
Jake Newby is a brand journalist for Blue Cross Blue...
Key Takeaways
- Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort that may signal GERD if symptoms occur frequently.
- Lifestyle changes like eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce acid reflux symptoms over time.
- Over-the-counter medications, including antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can provide relief when lifestyle changes alone are not enough.
- Frequent reflux, trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss or chest pain should prompt medical evaluation to prevent complications and determine appropriate treatment.
Acid reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and irritates its lining, often causing heartburn in the chest. Occasional reflux is common, but frequent symptoms may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
It is possible to reduce acid reflux symptoms significantly and, in some cases, find long-term relief, especially through lifestyle changes. However, many people require ongoing management through diet and medication. Understanding triggers and treatment options can help reduce discomfort and prevent long-term irritation of the esophagus.
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach acid to move upward. Symptoms can include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- A sour taste in the mouth
- Chest discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing
GERD is diagnosed when reflux happens more than twice a week or leads to complications such as inflammation of the esophagus, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Common triggers include:
- Large meals
- Lying down after eating
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Caffeine and alcohol
These triggers increase pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter or slow digestion, making reflux more likely. Identifying personal triggers is often the first step in managing symptoms.
How lifestyle changes help acid reflux
For many people, lifestyle changes are the most effective first line of defense. Harvard Health recommends eating smaller meals, avoiding late-night eating and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the stomach.
Other strategies suggested by the Mayo Clinic include:
- Raising the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches to help prevent acid from flowing upward while sleeping.
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoiding trigger foods such as fatty, fried and spicy foods, chocolate, tomatoes, onions, garlic, mint and caffeinated beverages.
Even chewing food slowly and not lying down for at least 2 to 3 hours after eating can make a noticeable difference.
Physical activity can also help with weight management. The Mayo Clinic suggests regular exercises that allow you to stay upright, such as riding a stationary bike.
When to see a doctor for acid reflux
If symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, or if they occur frequently, contact your primary care provider. Warning signs include difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, persistent nausea or vomiting and chest pain. These symptoms may indicate complications that require medical evaluation, per the Cleveland Clinic.
A discussion with your PCP about the symptoms can help decide whether diagnostic testing is necessary to determine severity and rule out other conditions. This might include a referral to a GI specialist for a gastroscopy to confirm the diagnosis.
What makes acid reflux go away?
There is no single quick fix for acid reflux, but a combination of habits and treatments can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms over time. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases notes that lifestyle changes combined with medications – when needed – are often the most effective approach to controlling GERD.
Over-the-counter antacids may provide short-term relief by neutralizing stomach acid, while H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work by reducing the amount of acid the stomach produces, according to a study published in the Cureus Journal of Medical Science. PPIs are often used for more persistent symptoms. In more severe cases, doctors may recommend prescription-strength medications or evaluate whether surgery is appropriate.
A single dietary change may not resolve symptoms, but sustained adjustments to eating patterns and weight management often lead to long-term improvement.
FAQs for getting rid of acid reflux
Can acid reflux go away permanently?
In some cases, the condition can be permanently resolved, especially when incorporating consistent lifestyle factors. However, many people need ongoing management through diet and medication.
What foods should I avoid with acid reflux?
Common triggers include spicy foods, mint, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine and fatty and fried meals.
Do medications cure acid reflux?
Medications such as PPIs and H2 blockers reduce acid production and control symptoms, but they do not always cure the underlying cause.
When should I see a doctor for acid reflux?
If symptoms are frequent, severe or include chest pain or trouble swallowing, medical evaluation is recommended.
Photo credit: Getty Images
