Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Prevent GERD flares with a healthy weight, smaller meals, early dinner, no smoking and limiting personal triggers.
Reflux cannot always be prevented, but daily habits lower how often it happens and how bad it gets.
Habits that help
Medicines
Use painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac only when needed and with food. Ask a doctor about alternatives if they worsen symptoms.
In pregnancy
Small meals, avoiding late eating, and raising the head of the bed help. Ask a doctor or midwife before taking any medicine.
Early care
Heartburn more than twice a week should be reviewed so that damage to the food pipe is not missed.
Ayurvedic view
Regular mealtimes, light dinners and avoiding excess spice are traditional suggestions. They match general healthy habits but are not proven to prevent GERD on their own.
Key point
Difficulty swallowing, weight loss or vomiting blood need prompt medical care.
Before you see a doctor
Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements to the appointment, along with a note of when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether they wake you at night. This helps your doctor choose the right tests and treatment without delay.
Speak to your doctor if symptoms keep returning, rather than relying on tablets alone for months.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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GERD can be non-erosive, erosive or Barrett's, with typical or throat-related symptoms. Learn how the types differ.
GERD medicines include antacids, alginates, H2 blockers and PPIs. A doctor should guide dose and duration.
GERD happens when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe. Causes include a weak valve, obesity, pregnancy and late meals.
GERD can progress from occasional reflux to oesophagitis and complications. Early care and review lower the risk.
GERD causes heartburn and sour regurgitation. Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness is an emergency, not reflux.
A GERD diet limits fried food, fizzy drinks and late meals and favours smaller, regular meals. Triggers vary by person.
