GERD Alternative Treatments
There are many over the counter medications to help relieve the symptoms of GERD, but very few that treat the cause. If you experience heartburn more than once a week, or are using antacids on a regular basis, be sure to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and medication use.
The best treatment for the causes of GERD is to eliminate or reduce the foods and beverages that irritate the esophageal sphincter. Your doctor will probably encourage you to pay close attention to what you have eaten when you feel heartburn, so that you can avoid those foods in the future. Foods that are highly acidic include fatty or sugary foods, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, onions, and garlic. Sodas are high in sugar and can cause irritaion of the esophageal sphincter. Alcohol, caffeine, and nictotine have also been known to irritate the esophageal sphincter. Avoiding spicy food and mints or mint-flavored foods and drinks can help reduce the likelihood of suffering from heartburn.
Of course, there are also any physical causes of malfunction of the esophageal sphincter. Bending over, straining, lifting heavy objects, or lying down can contribute to GERD. Try to eat slowly, sitting up straight, and without contriction around your abdomen. This will allow the esphagus, esophageal sphincter, and stomach to do their jobs without obstruction.
However, in combination with difficult lifestyle changes, it is possible your doctor will encourage you to take some medications to help ease symptoms while they persist. The most effective medications are called proton pump inhibitors. They not only decrease the acidity of the stomach, which you will also do by changing your diet, but they can help the esophagus heal.
Most people respond well to non-invasive treatments, changes in diet and lifestyle that are relatively easy and can lead to immediate decreases in symptoms. However, there are cases of people who take medications in the long term.
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