Acid reflux (GERD) is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort, heartburn, and other symptoms. While chronic acid reflux often requires medical intervention, there are immediate strategies you can employ to alleviate symptoms quickly. Here's a guide on how to stop acid reflux immediately.
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Change Your Position
You should reorient your body to any direction you wish. Shifting posture is one of the fastest ways to relieve acid reflux. For instance, try lifting up your upper body if you're seated or lying down. You could prop yourself with pillows or recline in a straight-back chair. There is no abdominal pressure, and this allows gravity to take over and keep the stomach's effluent where it belongs.
Drink Water
Drinking a glass of delectable water can dilute and wash the acid from the stomach sitting in the esophagus. This practice can relieve one from the burn caused by reflux instantly. Make the water neither too hot nor too cold; the water's room temperature would be adequate since extreme cold or heat may annoy you.
Try Baking Soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a useful secondary antacid. It deserves pointing out that alkalinizing the stomach's acidity with just a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water is most effective, rapidly soothing stomach heat. At the same time, this remedy should not be encouraged; excessive sodium intake on sodium bicarbonate has its own consequences on health.
Chew Gum
Gum chewing helps form saliva, which in turn helps neutralize the effect of excess acid in the stomach. It also promotes swallowing, which helps keep acid in the stomach quite effectively. You should choose sugar-free gum to avoid unnecessary sugar intake and spikes.
Stay Away From Trigger Foods and Beverages
Also, it is possible to get quick relief by not eating or drinking food that usually aggravates acid reflux. These include spicy and rich foods, caffeine, carbonated beverages, and chocolates. If you have reflux, avoid these items until your symptoms disappear.
Take Antacids Readily Available at Drug Stores
Tums, Rolaids, or Maalox over-the-counter medications, which affect the acid in the stomach, back-up relief. These medications are usually effective with almost immediate results and can serve as a quick fix. However, you need to consult a medical practitioner in case you find yourself using over-the-counter medications for such acid over prolonged periods.
Learn Deep Breathing Techniques
Acid reflux may occur more during times of stress or anxiety. Practicing relaxing deep breathing sequences can cool down your body and reduce stomach acid production. Inhale through your nose, fill your lungs with air, and hold your breath for a few seconds. Exhale through your mouth slowly. Repeat several times until you feel more at ease.
Do Not Lie Down After Eating
Doctors recommend not lying down for a while after meals or a snack, especially if there are any reflux symptoms. However, patients should be taught to remain seated for a minimum of two to three hours directly after meals. This enables the stomach to digest the food eaten properly and reduces the chances of acid flowing back into the esophagus.