How do I stop acid reflux at night?

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can be bothersome and disruptive, especially at night when you’re trying to sleep. Here are some tips to help you reduce or prevent acid reflux at night:

1. Avoid eating heavy meals close to bedtime: Try to eat your dinner at least 2-3 hours before you go to bed to give your stomach enough time to digest the food. Eating a heavy meal and then lying down immediately afterward can increase the likelihood of acid reflux.
2. Elevate the head of your bed: Use a wedge-shaped pillow or elevate the head of your bed by about 6-8 inches. This can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into your esophagus while you sleep.
3. Sleep on your left side: Sleeping on your left side can help keep the junction between your stomach and esophagus above the level of stomach acid, reducing the risk of acid reflux at night.
4. Avoid trigger foods and drinks: Certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux, so try to avoid them, especially in the evening. Common triggers include spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Pay attention to your own triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
5. Lose weight if needed: Excess weight can put pressure on your stomach and increase the risk of acid reflux. If you are overweight, losing weight through diet and exercise may help alleviate your symptoms.
6. Avoid lying down immediately after eating: Try to stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating to allow your food to properly digest before lying down.
7. Wear loose-fitting clothes: Tight clothing, especially around your waist, can put pressure on your stomach and worsen acid reflux. Opt for loose-fitting clothes, especially when you’re preparing for bedtime.
8. Consider medication: If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to control your acid reflux at night, talk to your doctor about medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that can help reduce stomach acid production and relieve your symptoms.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing persistent acid reflux at night or if your symptoms are severe, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.