Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can turn what should be a relaxing wind-down into hours of discomfort. However, a few smart habits can make a big difference in keeping gastric acid where it belongs.
If you struggle with bothersome GERD flare-up symptoms, such as burning in your chest, upper belly or chest pain, backwash, a sore throat, or an ongoing cough, schedule an appointment with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, on New York City’s Upper West Side. Dr. Seecoomar can help you effectively manage your symptoms and avoid GERD-related complications.
GERD is a condition that develops when acid from your stomach flows upward into your esophagus, causing heartburn. If left untreated, it can irritate the lining of your esophagus and lead to complications such as inflammation, a narrowed esophagus, or precancerous changes. Dr. Seecoomar offers solutions that relieve GERD symptoms.
These factors may boost the risk of developing GERD:
Reducing GERD may involve taking medications and/or making lifestyle adjustments.
Here are eight simple ways to help prevent GERD symptoms after dinner:
Large meals, especially right before bed, are a risk factor for GERD flare-ups. Prioritize smaller, more frequent meals over large meals. If you do eat a larger meal, consider having it earlier in the day. Whenever possible, wait at least three hours after a meal before lying down.
Some medications provide quick and/or long-lasting relief of GERD symptoms. Dr. Seecoomer offers prescription medications if over-the-counter medicines or lifestyle changes haven’t relieved your discomfort.
Diaphragmatic breathing is something you can do after dinner to reduce GERD symptoms. During this breathing exercise, you’ll breathe deeply into your diaphragm instead of breathing shallowly into your chest. Dr. Seecoomar can teach you how to master this technique.
Smoking can decrease your lower esophageal sphincter’s ability to function as designed, boosting the risk of backwash and other GERD symptoms.
Elevating the head of your bed by about 6-9 inches helps reduce acid reflux after a late-night meal.
If you do eat later at night, avoid lying down immediately afterward to reduce post-dinner GERD flare-ups. If you must lie down after eating, consider elevating the head of your bed and lying down on your left side.
Wearing tight clothing places pressure on your abdomen and lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of reflux. Choose loose-fitted and comfortable clothes instead, especially after dinner whenever possible.
GERD is more likely to occur when you eat quickly. Aim to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly to reduce reflux and other unpleasant GERD symptoms. Limit or avoid common trigger foods like chocolate, coffee, onions, garlic, alcohol, mint, and fatty or fried foods.
Dr. Seecoomar provides healthy weight management to reduce your risk of GERD. He can also help you eliminate bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and other common gastrointestinal concerns.
Schedule a gastrointestinal evaluation with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, at 212-217-9961 or book an appointment online today to eliminate GERD and ease bothersome symptoms.
