Preventing acid reflux before it occurs is far better than treating it. Those who have never suffered from it do not realize how painful it can be. However, most people will end up with acid reflux at some point in their lives and see what it is all about. Those who get it occasionally may not need to worry too much about it. However, those who suffer from it several times a week must take action.
Since the pain associated with acid reflux can last for several hours, you don’t want to wait for the medication to take effect. Those hours can feel like days as you wait for relief. At the same time, it can prevent you from enjoying the events in your life, concentrating on work, or getting the rest you desperately need. There’s also the fact that acid in the esophagus can do quite a bit of damage.
The most important way to prevent acid reflux is to determine your triggers. They can be different for everyone, so plan to spend some time problem-solving. Don’t assume that the same reason someone you know suffers from acid reflux is the same reason you do. The leading cause of acid reflux is the food a person eats. Take the time to document your acid reflux and what foods you have eaten that day.
Doing so will help you identify patterns. For example, if you get acid reflux after eating fresh oranges, they may have too much acid for your body to digest. If you get acid reflux after eating spicy foods, you may need to change what you use to prepare your meals.
Of course, not everyone suffers from acid reflux due to their eating habits. It can be due to some medical problem. You can find out by making an appointment with your doctor. Let them know about the documentation you have with your acid reflux. They will likely run tests to check for acid levels, hernias, and ulcers.
If such medical concerns can be ruled out, you can look into various types of medications that you can take daily. This way, you can avoid having to suffer from acid reflux. Over-the-counter products also will help you. Your doctor will ask you to try them first. If nothing is effective, they can try various prescription medications for you.
With so many ways to prevent acid reflux, there’s no reason to let it take over. Find out what the best method works for you so you get the best results. However, many over-the-counter and prescription medications for acid reflux have some side effects. So you want to do what you can to resolve the problem naturally with your diet.
Otherwise, try different forms of acid reflux medication until you find one that works and has minimal side effects for you to deal with. So you can enjoy your life again. You can also get back to enjoying the kinds of foods you eat. While you’ll still need to watch your diet, you may have more options than before.