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GERD (Adult)

The esophagus is a tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. A valve at the lower end of the esophagus prevents stomach acid from flowing upward. When this valve does not work properly, stomach content may repeatedly flow back up (reflux) into the esophagus. This is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can irritate the esophagus. It can cause problems with swallowing or breathing. In severe cases, GERD can cause pneumonia or other serious problems.

Front view of man showing respiratory and upper digestive anatomy.

Symptoms of reflux include burning, pressure or sharp pain in the upper abdomen or mid to lower chest. The pain can spread to the neck, back or shoulder. There may be belching, an acid taste in the back of the throat, chronic cough, sore throat and/or hoarseness. GERD symptoms often occur during the day after a big meal. They can also occur at night when lying down. 

 

Home care

Lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms. If needed, medicines may be prescribed. Symptoms often improve with treatment but if treatment is stopped, the symptoms often return after a few months. Most people with GERD will need to continue treatment to manage their symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

  • Limit or avoid: fatty, fried and spicy foods. Also, avoid coffee, chocolate, mint and foods with high acid content. High acid-content foods include tomatoes, citrus fruit and juices (orange, grapefruit and lemon).
  • Do not eat large meals, especially at night. Frequent, smaller meals are best. Do not lie down right after eating, and do not eat anything less than 3 hours before going to bed.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking. As much as possible, stay away from second hand smoke.
  • If you are overweight, losing weight will reduce symptoms. 
  • Avoid wearing tight clothing around your stomach area.
  • If your symptoms occur during sleep, use a foam wedge to elevate your upper body (not just your head). Another option is to place 4" blocks under the legs at the head of your bed so your bed is on an incline.

Medicines

If needed, medicines can help relieve the symptoms of GERD and prevent damage to the esophagus. Discuss a medicine plan with your healthcare provider. This may include one or more of the following medicines:

  • Antacids to help neutralize the normal acids in your stomach.
  • Acid blockers (H2 blockers) to decrease acid production.
  • Acid inhibitors (PPIs) to decrease acid production in a different way than the blockers. They may decrease acid better, but may take longer to work. .

Take an antacid 30-60 minutes after eating and at bedtime, but not at the same time as an acid blocker. Try not to take medicines such as ibuprofen and aspirin. If you are taking aspirin for your heart or other medical reasons, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it is necessary to continue taking it. .

 

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider or as advised by our staff.

 

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:

  • Abdominal pain gets worse or moves to the lower right abdomen (appendix area).
  • Chest pain appears or gets worse, or spreads to the back, neck, shoulder, or arm.
  • An over-the-counter trial of medicine doesn't relieve your symptoms
  • Weight loss that cannot be explained
  • Trouble or pain swallowing
  • Frequent vomiting (unable to keep down liquids).
  • Blood in the stool or vomit (red or black in color).
  • Feeling weak or dizzy.
  • Fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider.