Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious digestive condition identified when acid reflux happens more than twice a week for a few weeks. This reflux of stomach acid from the stomach into the esophagus is typically accompanied by burning in the chest, regurgitation, and occasionally other symptoms like hoarseness, coughing, or trouble swallowing.

This condition can affect the quality of life and lead to more serious complications, including damage to the esophagus. As GERD is not a curable disease, it is advisable to avoid its triggers and take preventive measures to prevent the recurrence of its symptoms.

Preventive measures to prevent GERD

Preventing the recurrence of GERD symptoms involves a series of healthy lifestyle changes, including:

Maintaining body weight

Research shows a strong link between being overweight and GERD symptoms. Being overweight, especially around the belly area, increases the risk of developing GERD and affects the severity of symptoms.

Being overweight can increase the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (the barrier valve between the esophagus and stomach). As a result of the increased pressure, the sphincter becomes fat or malfunctions, making it easier for stomach acid to pass up the esophagus.

Quit smoking

The nicotine contained in cigarettes can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, which makes acid reflux more likely. So quitting smoking is an important step in managing and preventing GERD symptoms.

Elevating head position

Elevating the head position helps prevent acid reflux during sleep. This position reduces the chances of stomach acid rising into the esophagus and causing GERD symptoms.

Read more: 4 Obat Rumahan Saat GERD Menyerang

Sleeping on the left side

In addition to elevating your head, you can also try sleeping on your left side. This position allows the stomach to be below the esophagus so that stomach acid does not back up into the esophagus.

Sleeping on your left side can also aid in the digestion process by supporting better food flow into the intestines.

Not lying down after eating

Waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down or sleeping helps to avoid the recurrence of GERD symptoms. Standing or sitting rely on gravity to help keep stomach acid in the stomach.

In addition to standing or sitting, you may also want to try walking slowly after eating to reduce the chances of acid reflux. This light activity also speeds up the digestion process by helping food move faster from the stomach to the intestines.

Chew food slowly

It is a good idea to chew food slowly and thoroughly to enhance digestion and lower your chance of experiencing GERD symptoms and bloating. Well-chewed food makes it easier for the stomach and intestines to digest.

You might also feel fuller sooner and limit your portion sizes if you chew your food slowly. Avoiding overeating also helps reduce the risk of GERD symptoms.

Read more: Tips Memilih Makanan Bila Menderita GERD

Avoiding clothes that are too tight

Clothing that is too tight, especially around the abdomen, can put additional pressure on the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter. The constant pressure causes the sphincter to become weaker or not function properly.

Do not hesitate to see a doctor if you experience acid reflux symptoms more than twice a week or GERD symptoms that do not improve despite taking antacid medications.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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