4 Ways to Prevent Acid Reflux
It is normal to have acid reflux after eating particular foods once in a while. The acid reflux may last a few hours and disappear completely. But if it comes every time you eat, and it is accompanied by symptoms such as burning sensation and bloating, it would be best to see a Lima acid reflux specialist for treatment. The GI Physicians Inc. team will share insight into how acid reflux develops and its treatment methods. Meanwhile, here are some preventive measures the team recommends:
How to prevent acid reflux
The digestive system is a combination of activities by various organs in your body. Once you swallow food, it passes through the esophagus to the stomach. The hydrochloric acid in the stomach synthesizes the food. Acid reflux occurs when the HCL goes back up to your esophagus, causing a burning sensation.
- Knowing the risk factors for acid reflux
Acid reflux can happen to anyone. For example, you may experience heartburn when you eat spicy foods or eat too quickly. The risk factors for GERD also include pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes. In some cases, eating disorders can also aggravate your GERD. If you notice these symptoms every time you eat, see an acid reflux specialist for treatment.
- Adjust your lifestyle habits
GERD is also common in people with unhealthy lifestyle habits. Any doctor can tell you that it is wrong to lie down immediately after eating. It is also advisable to avoid eating large meals and wearing tight-fitting clothing that could pressure your abdomen. If you are a smoker, the time to quit is immediately when you notice it is aggravating your condition. When these measures fail to work, see a specialist as soon as you can.
- Avoid certain foods
Deep-fried, spicy foods and fizzy drinks may also cause GERD. If you notice that you develop acid reflux after taking these meals, it would be best to take them in low portions or avoid them altogether. But if avoiding these foods does not help, seek the assistance of a doctor.
- Have a backup treatment plan
Some people recover faster after adjusting their lifestyle habits. But if acid reflux does not subside with lifestyle changes, seeing a doctor prescribe treatment will be necessary. A doctor can recommend over-the-counter medications to balance the stomach’s acidity levels, preventing acid reflux. Avoid self-medicating if the symptoms persist. Doing that only worsens your situation and puts your kidneys at risk for failure.
See a doctor for a treatment plan
Having acid reflux can be unbearable, mainly if you are not sure about what is causing it. The good news is, acid reflux is preventable. Before seeing a doctor for treatment, try adjusting your eating habits first. If none of these preventive measures work, consider talking to your doctor to determine if you have GERD or any other digestive issue. That way, you will know what to avoid and enjoy your quality of life. To learn more about the causes of GERD and the available treatment plans, schedule a visit with your GI Physicians Inc. doctor today.
