Acid Reflux Health Center

In healthy infants, treatment for acid reflux is usually not needed. Adults can clear up symptoms and manage the condition by steering clear of fatty, spicy or acidic foods or by eating smaller meals. If you are a smoker, quitting can provide significant relief against reflux-like symptoms.

There are over-the-counter medications available to aid in heartburn relief. Acid-reducing agents called antacids and anti-secretory medications such as H2 blockers and proton-pump inhibitors can assist in blocking symptoms. These medications include the following:

• Alka-Seltzer
• Maalox
• Mylanta
• Pepto-Bismol
• Riopan
• Rolaids
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Famotidine (Pepcid AC)
• Nizatidine (Axid)
• Ranitidine (Zantac)
• Esomeprazole (Nexium)
• Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
• Omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid)
• Pantoprazole (Protonix)
• Rabeprazole (Aciphex)

Foods that contribute to acid reflux symptoms and should be avoided include:

• citrus fruits
• chocolate
• caffeinated beverages
• alcohol
• fried foods
• garlic
• onions
• mint flavorings
• spicy or fatty foods
• tomato-based foods such as spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili and pizza

Maintaining a healthy weight can also help. Try not to lie down for at least three hours following a meal and raise the head of your bed six to eight inches to aid in the digestive process.

If your acid reflux symptoms become severe and the condition progresses to GERD or Barrett’s esophagus, you may need to talk to your doctor about treatment options such as surgical or endoscopic procedures.