Relieve GERD/Heartburn

While not only uncomfortable to live with, if left untreated GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can cause serious complications. Inflammation of the esophagus from stomach acid can cause bleeding or ulcers. Heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD. Anyone experiencing heartburn twice a week or more may have GERD.

Heartburn

Heartburn, or reflux, occurs when small amounts of stomach acid rise up into the esophagus, or the "swallowing" tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

You can have GERD without having heartburn. Your symptoms could be excessive clearing of the throat, problems swallowing, the feeling that food is stuck in your throat, burning in the mouth, or pain in the chest.
Studies have shown that asthma, chronic cough, and pulmonary fibrosis may be aggravated or even caused by GERD.

Limit Acid Reflux

Foods to avoid:

• caffeine
• chocolate
• peppermint
• spicy foods
• acidic foods like oranges (citrus)
• fried and fatty foods
• garlic and onions
• tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza

Other factors that may contribute to GERD include:

• alcohol use
• being overweight
• pregnancy
• smoking
• eating meals 2 to 3 hours before bed

Lifestyle Changes

• If you smoke, stop.
• Do not drink alcohol.
• Lose weight if needed.
• Eat small meals.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
• Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.
• Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by putting blocks of wood under the bedposts-just using extra pillows will not help.

GERD is a treatable condition, and that means you don't have to live with its discomfort and pain any longer. The Florida Hospital Digestive Health Center provides the very latest options for diagnosis and treatment.

If you are part of the 40 percent of Americans who surfer from GERD and would prefer to be heartburn and symptom free, relief could be just a phone call away. The Florida Hospital Digestive Health Center offers seven convenient locations.

Contact us online or for a physician referral and priority scheduling, please call toll free 407-303-5981.