ODS. Healthcare from your head to your toes.

Alternative treatments

It is important to understand and consider all factors — including additional costs — as you discuss treatment options with your provider. When it comes to treatment for upper GI issues, surgery is not your only option. Many alternative treatments and self-care options are as effective, less invasive and less expensive.

Adjusting your eating habits
Avoid trigger foods. Changing your diet can yield big benefits. Some triggers include chocolate, coffee, alcohol, peppermint, citrus juices and tomatoes. Your specific food triggers may differ. Keep track of what you eat just before you feel your condition worsen.

Eat smaller meals. Instead of eating three big meals a day, try more frequent smaller meals.It’s not just what you eat but how much.

Don’t eat before bed. Not eating a few hours before bed gives your stomach time to empty before you lie down.

Weight loss

Being overweight puts you at risk for many conditions. Aiming for a 10 percent weight loss is always a good idea.

Medications

Prescription and over-the-counter medication also can be an effective treatment.

Evaluate your other medications

Many common medications, including aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) painkillers, along with some drugs for high blood pressure, can make conditions - such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - worse. Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives that may not worsen your symptoms.

If you smoke, quit

Smoking is unhealthy and may aggravate upper GI symptoms. Add this to your list of good reasons to kick the habit.

Take your medicine as prescribed

Symptoms may come and go, but the underlying condition remains. Once you’re feeling better, you may be tempted to stop your long-term medication. Never stop taking your medication unless you’ve talked to your doctor.

Adjust your clothing

Tight belts or pants can aggravate your symptoms. Wear looser clothing, especially at night.

Elevate your head when you sleep

Place blocks under the head of your bed and raise it 6 to 8 inches. Gravity will prevent the acids in your stomach from flowing into the esophagus during the night.