Clinical, Homeopathic and Lifestyle Treatments for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, clinically known as GERD, is a condition affecting countless people each year. While the symptoms can be uncomfortable and vary in severity, because it is a common disorder, there are many known methods to treat acid reflux symptoms. Presented here is a brief explanation of the most common symptoms of acid reflux, as well as some of the best methods for treatment.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
The most common and uncomfortable symptoms of acid reflux are heartburn and the regurgitation of bitter acid into the throat, which gives the disorder its popular name. People with GERD may also experience a dry cough, wheezing or hoarseness due to the effects of the acid on the throat. Finally, another common symptom is the feeling of tightness in your throat, another effect of the regurgitation of acid.
Treatment Options
Treatment for acid reflux varies depending on the severity and specific symptoms, but there are both homeopathic and clinical options for treating the condition.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes:
There are many things that those with GERD can do to help treat acid reflux without the use of medication. One example is a change in diet, which if done properly has been shown to help reduce discomfort from acid reflux. Avoid fatty or fried foods, highly acidic foods such as citrus juices, excessive dairy, and caffeinated or carbonated beverages, among other foods. Many people with GERD also assume that carbohydrates are a bad choice, but “good” carbs such as whole grains and oats can actually be helpful.
Lifestyle changes can also have a significant effect on GERD symptoms. Eating more frequent, smaller meals and eating more slowly have been shown to reduce acid levels after eating, and thus reduce discomfort from acid reflux. It’s also important avoid caffeine and stay away from smoking cigarettes, as these can exacerbate symptoms. One particularly easy trick that has been proven to work is to chew gum between meals, as it promotes the production of saliva, which has a basic pH and thus acts as a natural antacid.
Home Remedies:
There are also many homeopathic remedies that can help treat acid reflux. Common home-remedy substances like chamomile tea and ginger root have been shown to help reduce discomfort from acid reflux, although there is little clinical research on the topic of home remedies for GERD. Eating bananas is another method that has provided relief for some acid reflux sufferers, as some studies suggest that bananas promote speedy digestion. Honey has also helped with some individuals as a treatment for sore throat and hoarseness. There’s no harm in trying various home remedies, but because they generally aren’t well-researched, there are also no guarantees.
Medical Treatments:
Finally, there are clinical options for treating heartburn, which generally take the form of over-the-counter or prescription medication. Over-the-counter antacids, such as Tums, Rolaids or Mylanta, are a popular choice, although they are better for quick symptom relief than as a permanent treatment. There are also over-the-counter medications that reduce or block acid production, such as Zantac, Prevacid or Pepcid AC.
If symptoms are severe or don’t improve over time, or if over-the-counter medications prove ineffective, a doctor can also prescribe prescription-strength medications. Substances such as nizatidine, pantoprazole, and omeprazole have been shown to reduce symptoms, and medications like Baclofen are often used to strengthen the esophagus. While these medications can lead to a risk of side effects when used long-term, they are often very effective in treating acid reflux.
