What should I do for acid reflux and heartburn?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER), commonly referred to as “acid regurgitation,” is the sudden, spontaneous backflow of small amounts of acidic gastric fluid into the mouth. Heartburn refers to a burning sensation in the epigastric region or behind the sternum, often radiating upward from the lower sternum. When both symptoms occur concurrently, they may be accompanied by abdominal distension, belching, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dysphagia. So, what should one do when experiencing acid regurgitation and heartburn? The following addresses this question.

How to Manage Acid Regurgitation and Heartburn

1. Pharmacological Treatment

In most cases, acid regurgitation and heartburn can be managed with acid-suppressing or antacid medications—such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H₂-receptor antagonists—which inhibit gastric acid and pepsin secretion, thereby reducing acid irritation to the esophagus. Common PPIs include omeprazole and lansoprazole; common H₂-receptor antagonists include cimetidine, famotidine, and ranitidine. Additionally, mucosal protective agents—such as bismuth potassium citrate and colloidal bismuth pectin—may be used to shield the gastrointestinal mucosa from acid-induced damage. However, these medications must be taken strictly under medical supervision to avoid exacerbating the condition. Patients with severe symptoms should seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.

2. Dietary Modifications

Dietary principles should emphasize frequent, small meals and soft, easily digestible foods, while avoiding cold, raw, or highly irritating items. Emotional stability and anxiety reduction are also crucial. Irregular eating habits place undue stress on the gastrointestinal tract, impairing its function and increasing susceptibility to acid reflux and heartburn. Examples include overeating, rapid eating, binge eating, and consuming spicy foods, alcohol, strong tea, or coffee. Moreover, psychological factors—including chronic irritability, prolonged sleep deprivation or insomnia, and excessive work-related stress—can also trigger acid regurgitation and heartburn.

3. Smoking Cessation

Smoking adversely affects not only the lungs but also the stomach significantly. Smoke entering the stomach via the esophagus impairs the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), potentially causing edema and loss of sphincter tone. Many smokers develop reflux esophagitis. It is advisable to avoid lying down immediately after meals, as this relaxes the LES and facilitates gastric acid reflux.

The above outlines management strategies for acid regurgitation and heartburn. We hope this information proves helpful.