Conservative Treatment for Acid Reflux Disease with GERD Medication and Lifestyle Change

Stop heartburn and control acid reflux with GERD medication and changes in your lifestyle.

When a patient first seeks treatment for chronic heartburn, dietary and lifestyle changes are often the initial recommendation. When these changes are not enough, a number of medications are effective at controlling gastric reflux and preventing heartburn.

Conservative therapy for GERD

Physician supervised lifestyle and diet changes are an important component to acid reflux treatment. With Dr. Bagnato’s support, this initial phase of medical treatment can help you to control your heartburn, understand your reflux triggers and correct any other habits that may be contributing to your heartburn.

Dietary Changes

Gradually eliminating certain foods from your diet is one of the most reliable ways to determine the triggers causing acid reflux. Other dietary changes Dr. Bagnato recommends include reducing meal size and avoiding alcohol consumption. If you are experiencing regular acid reflux, Dr. Bagnato will discuss the dietary changes in your best interest.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to changing how you eat, several habits may contribute to your acid reflux, which you must alter as you seek treatment. Being sedentary, wearing clothes that are too tight, or sleeping directly after a meal are all factors that could influence your likelihood of experiencing heartburn. Other essential changes include smoking cessation and weight loss; your physician will determine how many of these changes are appropriate for you.

Medications for GERD

Medicinal acid reflux treatment is available over the counter and via prescription. Though medications are available without a prescription, confirming with your physician before medicating for particular symptoms is best.

Medications for GERD are not intended to correct the cause of acid reflux. Instead, they reduce symptoms by alleviating pressure and decreasing the production of acid in the stomach. They also protect the lining of the esophagus from erosion as a result of acidic backflow.

It is essential to understand that GERD is a progressive disease. Symptoms may gradually worsen over time. While one medication dosage may work for an extended period, chances are that medicinal needs will change as the disease progresses.

Common medications for GERD include:

Antacids: Many antacids are available over the counter. This type of medication helps to neutralize stomach acids and is generally taken to relieve heartburn and acid reflux after the pain is present.
H-2 receptor blockers: These medications reduce stomach acid production and are available both over the counter and through a prescription.
Proton pump inhibitors: Unlike other over-the-counter medications, proton pump inhibitors or PPIs help heal the esophagus by blocking acid production, allowing time for the esophageal tissue to repair itself.
Prokinetic agents: Only available through a prescription, this type of medication helps to alleviate acid reflux and heartburn by speeding the rate at which the stomach contents empty while also tightening the valve between the stomach and the esophagus through which stomach acid escapes.

The possible side effects of GERD medications can vary depending on the specific medication. However, some common side effects of these medications include headache, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Additionally, some studies have suggested that long-term use of certain GERD medications may increase the risk of bone fractures, kidney disease, and certain infections. If you are experiencing any side effects or have concerns about your medication, it is important to speak with your doctor.