GERD (Acid Reflux): What Really Helps When Heartburn Won’t Quit

Did you know about 1 in 5 adults get heartburn each week? If that sounds like you, GERD—gastroesophageal reflux disease—might be the reason. GERD happens when stomach acid keeps coming up into the esophagus. That causes burning in the chest, a sour taste, cough, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing. Not every burn means GERD, but when symptoms are regular or affect sleep, they need attention.

Spot the triggers and quick fixes

Start by watching what makes symptoms worse. Common triggers are fatty or fried foods, coffee, chocolate, alcohol, spicy meals, and late-night eating. Smoking and tight belts also push acid up. Try these easy, practical changes first: eat smaller meals, stop eating 2–3 hours before bed, raise the head of your bed 6–8 inches, and swap trigger foods for milder options. Losing even a little weight can cut reflux a lot for many people.

Also pay attention to posture. Sitting upright for an hour after a meal and avoiding heavy lifting or bending forward right after eating can help. If you wake at night with choking or a sour taste, those are red flags that acid is reaching the throat.

Medications: OTC choices and when to see a doctor

Over-the-counter antacids (Tums, Rolaids) neutralize acid fast but short-lived. H2 blockers like famotidine (Pepcid) reduce acid production and can last several hours—good for predictable heartburn or before a meal. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole are stronger and meant for frequent symptoms; they reduce acid more deeply but usually need a few days to reach full effect.

If you try OTC steps for 2–4 weeks without long-lasting relief, see a doctor. They may recommend tests, a prescription-strength PPI, or other treatments. Warning signs to act on now: trouble swallowing, unintended weight loss, vomiting blood, or black stools. These may mean more serious damage and need prompt evaluation.

Some medicines and supplements can make reflux worse—if you’re taking calcium supplements, certain blood pressure drugs, or antidepressants, talk with your provider about alternatives. Also be careful buying meds online; we have a guide on safe famotidine purchases if you need it.

For many people, a mix of lifestyle changes and the right medicine gives big relief. If you have noisy, frequent symptoms or symptoms that return after stopping treatment, ask for a tailored plan. Managing GERD often takes small, steady steps: change one habit, test a medicine, and check back in with your doctor. That approach keeps acid under control and helps you sleep and eat without fear of heartburn.