Acid Reflux Treatment: What Works Now and What Helps Long-Term
Heartburn stings, but you don’t have to just live with it. Acid reflux treatment aims for two things: stop pain quickly and prevent it coming back. Below are clear, practical steps you can try at home, which over-the-counter (OTC) medicines help, and when to see a doctor.
Quick fixes you can try today
For fast relief use an antacid (Tums, Maalox) to neutralize stomach acid. If antacids don’t last, try an H2 blocker like famotidine (Pepcid) for several hours of relief. For stronger short-term control, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole usually works better—take it before breakfast for best effect. Alginate products (Gaviscon) form a foam barrier that keeps acid down; many people find them helpful right after meals.
Small, practical moves also help immediately: sit upright after eating, avoid lying down within two to three hours after a meal, and raise the head of your bed 6–8 inches to keep acid from rising while you sleep. Skip tight waistbands and try sipping water or chewing sugar-free gum after meals to boost saliva and clear acid.
Long-term changes that reduce flare-ups
Look at triggers: common culprits are fatty or fried foods, spicy dishes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and large late meals. Cutting or reducing these often lowers symptoms dramatically. Losing even 10% of excess body weight tends to help reflux a lot. Quit smoking—nicotine weakens the valve between stomach and esophagus.
If you use a PPI, plan treatment with a timeline. For occasional reflux, short courses (2–8 weeks) are typical. If you need daily PPIs for months, check in with your doctor: long-term use can affect bone density, magnesium levels, and interactions with other drugs. Your clinician may try stepping down to an H2 blocker or using PPIs only when needed.
Consider testing for H. pylori if you have ulcers or frequent stomach pain—eradicating that infection can fix some acid-related problems. Also ask about sucralfate if you have esophagitis; it coats and protects irritated tissue while it heals.
When should you see a doctor? If you have trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, vomiting blood, or black stools, get help right away. If heartburn persists despite OTC treatment and lifestyle changes, ask for a referral—your doctor may order an endoscopy or prescribe a tailored treatment plan.
Want a quick plan? Start with lifestyle fixes and an antacid. If symptoms come back, move to famotidine or a short PPI course. If you still have problems after 8 weeks, book a doctor visit. Small changes add up fast—most people notice real improvement within weeks.
