Acid reflux medications can help symptoms by reducing or blocking stomach acid (each of them do it in a different way). The most common ones are antacids, histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors. It can get confusing trying to figure out which  medications are best to use, so our product finder tool will help guide you.

As a quick summary, antacids can help for mild symptoms but only work for a short time. Histamine blockers are stronger and last longer and are also helpful for people to use overnight.

For frequent and more severe symptoms, proton pump inhibitors are the most effective. There is one that can be bought without a prescription, but the rest require a healthcare professional consultation and prescription.

No, acid reflux, heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are often used interchangeably but actually mean different things.

Acid reflux happens when the contents of your stomach occasionally move back into your esophagus. Acid reflux is also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER). When this becomes more serious – it becomes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GER becomes Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) when it starts interfering with your daily life. If you get acid reflux more than two times a week for a long period of time, it starts to become a chronic condition and could cause long-term complications like damage to your esophagus and increase your risk for cancer.

Both acid reflux and GERD cause symptoms like heartburn. Heartburn is a burning sensation or pain in your chest behind your breastbone. The burning feeling starts in the upper belly and moves up to the chest. It usually happens after eating and gets worse when you bend over or lie down.

The frequent backflow of stomach acid causes damage to the esophagus over time, which can be quite serious. If you suspect you have GERD, it is important to see a doctor right away. This can help prevent damage to your esophagus, and even cancer.

Acid Reflux (GER) is normally prevented because the opening between the esophagus closes after food passes through. This opening is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Sometimes, the LES doesn’t close properly and your stomach contents can go back through the opening into the esophagus.

Most people experience acid reflux once in a while, which can be irritating, or they may not even feel it.This commonly happens after eating a large meal or after certain foods such as spicy food, peppermint, chocolate, alcohol, onions, citrus foods, fatty and fried foods or even tomato products because of their high acidity.

Other causes and risk factors that may lead to GERD include:

Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): The muscle valve that separates your stomach from your esophagus can become weak or relax too much, allowing stomach acid to flow back up.

Hiatal Hernia: Sometimes, a part of your stomach pushes up through an opening in your diaphragm, which can weaken the LES and increase the likelihood of acid reflux.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors: Certain foods and drinks like spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages can trigger or worsen GERD symptoms. Lifestyle habits like being overweight, smoking, and lying down right after eating can also contribute to GERD.

Delayed Stomach Emptying: If your stomach takes longer than usual to empty its contents, it increases the chances of acid reflux.

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, along with the pressure on the abdomen from the growing baby, can lead to GERD symptoms.

Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on your abdomen and worsen symptoms. If overweight, try to lose weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Large meals can trigger acid reflux. Opt for smaller portions and spread your meals throughout the day.

Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods and beverages can trigger acid reflux symptoms. Common triggers include spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. Identify your personal triggers and try to avoid them.

Don’t lie down after eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours after a meal before lying down or going to bed. This helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into your esophagus.

Elevate the head of your bed: Raising the head of your bed by about 6-8 inches can help prevent acid reflux during sleep. You can achieve this by using bed risers or placing a wedge-shaped pillow under the mattress.

Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and increase acid reflux. Quitting smoking is beneficial for overall health and can improve symptoms.

Manage stress: Stress and anxiety can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.

Acid reflux and GERD is usually managed based on the frequency and severity of symptoms or if there are other complications. Here is a general run-down:

Mild: Symptoms are not too bothersome and do not affect your daily activities much. They are usually not strong, don’t last long, and are not experienced during the night. This can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and first line over-the-counter medications (antacids and histamine blockers).

Moderate: Symptoms are more bothersome than mild ones and may impact your daily activities. They are stronger and may last longer than mild symptoms and do not respond to the usual over-the-counter medications. They are usually not experienced during the night, and there are no complications. Most people here generally start a medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Severe: Symptoms significantly interfere with your daily activities. They are intense, last for a longer time, and may occur at night. There may also be complications associated with these symptoms.

If you are experiencing moderate or severe symptoms, it is recommended to seek a referral or consultation with a healthcare professional.

It is possible for some people to manage their acid reflux by making changes to their lifestyle or using over-the-counter medications.  However, it is important to seek medical attention from a health care professional if:

Your symptoms are severe.

You have tried various methods but still find it difficult to control your symptoms.

You have been experiencing symptoms for many years.

It is also crucial to seek immediate medical help if you:

Experience trouble swallowing or feel as though food gets stuck when you eat.

Pain when swallowing.

Notice unintentional weight loss.

Feel chest pain.

Choke while eating.

Vomit blood or have bowel movements that appear red, black, or resemble tar.

By reaching out to a healthcare professional in these situations, you can receive proper

diagnosis and appropriate treatment to address any underlying concerns.