Tales from Urgent Care: Beating Acid Reflux

Tales from Urgent Care: Beating Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is uncomfortable, inconvenient, and all too common. It can be difficult to know how to beat acid reflux, simply because the symptoms and reactions are a little different for everyone. Luckily, the experts at our Urgent Care clinic know a thing or two about overcoming acid reflux.
A Closer Look at Acid Reflux
Before we get into the details on how to beat acid reflux, we should take a step back and get to know the enemy. Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition where a valve between the stomach and throat fails to close completely and allows stomach acid to up, causing the burning, painful sensation of acid reflux. Acid reflux has many symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and more. Unfortunately, this condition can become extremely severe, and it can even have long-term effects if left unchecked.
Beating Acid Reflux
So, how can you beat acid reflux? Let our Urgent Care experts offer some helpful tips!
- Lifestyle. Sometimes, acid reflux is heavily related to lifestyle details. If you’re looking for a way to limit the severity of acid reflux symptoms and improve your overall health, then making some lifestyle changes is a good place to start. Stop smoking, exercise regularly, get good sleep, and eat healthy foods–you’ll be surprised how much of a difference it can make!
- Drinks. When you think of acid reflux, you probably think of foods that cause discomfort–but the truth is that certain drinks can cause just as much pain. Try to limit or avoid caffeinated drinks, carbonated drinks, and alcohol, as all of these can increase the severity of acid reflux symptoms.
- Eating habits. It’s one thing to eat healthy and nutritious foods; it’s another thing to have healthy eating habits. Avoid overeating, try not to eat right before bed, and avoid foods that aggravate symptoms (like fried foods, citrus fruits, and mint).
Interested in more ways to beat acid reflux? Looking for Urgent Care experts? Contact us today!