Living with GERD/Acid reflux

If you have symptoms of GERD you should consult your doctor. You should describe your symptoms , explain how troublesome you find them to be, and how they affect your daily life. Your doctor can then confirm the diagnosis and provide you with a treatment plan.

Avoiding factors that make acid reflux worse may help to reduce the symptoms of GERD but is not an alternative to treatment.

• You may find it useful to keep a diary of your symptoms and the food you eat, so that you can see which foods affect you.
  
  
• Avoid eating too close to bedtime. Try to leave at least 2-3 hours after a meal, before you go to bed.
  
  
• Avoid lying down after meals.
  
  
• Eat small regular meals.
  
  
• Do not wear tight clothing that may increase the pressure on you stomach.
  
  
• Raising the head of your bed by 4-6 inches may help reduce night-time acid reflux.