Primary Care

Purpose

This plan is for people with GERD. Gastric (stomach) juices can get pushed back into the esophagus (the tube in your throat that food passes through to get to your stomach) . . . this is called reflux. Since gastric juices are very acidic, it can irritate the lining of the esophagus. The goal is to reduce the amount of "stomach juices" that can get backed up in the esophagus and decrease the pain and discomfort from the reflux.

Diet

Foods known to cause reflux or irritate the esophagus include:

• Chocolate

• Alcohol

• Mint

• Carbonated beverages

• Citrus juices

• Tomato products

• Coffee (regular or decaffeinated)

In addition, limiting high fat foods may help to reduce reflux. There is not a lot of scientific proof that avoiding these foods will lessen or prevent reflux. To avoid omitting foods unjustly, try problem foods in small quantities as part of a meal. Bottom line, if a food causes discomfort then it should be limited or avoided.

Lifestyle

The following tips may also help to prevent or reduce the amount of reflux

• Excess weight may increase pressure in the stomach causing more reflux. Achieving and maintaining a healthful weight may be helpful to control GERD.

• Smaller more frequent meals may reduce the pressure in the stomach which will reduce the amount of reflux that may occur after a large meal

• Stop smoking

• Try not to eat within 2-3 hours before going to bed

• Maintain an upright position for 45-60 minutes after eating

• If it is helpful, elevate the head of bed 6-8 inches when sleeping

• Avoid tight clothing or clothing that is restrictive in the stomach area

Drug Therapy

Many patients are given medicine to help treat GERD. This should be discussed with your doctor.