10 Treatments for Acid Reflux

One of the first steps in managing acid reflux is adjusting how and when you eat.

Take your time during meals and avoid overeating. Large portions — especially late in the evening — can make symptoms worse. It also helps to avoid alcohol within a few hours of bedtime and limit foods that commonly trigger reflux, such as chocolate, coffee, and spicy dishes.

Sleep position can make a noticeable difference.

Raising the head of the bed — ideally by about eight inches — may help reduce nighttime symptoms. This can be done by placing blocks under the headboard rather than stacking pillows.

Tight clothing, especially around the waist, can also put pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux, so looser options are a better choice.

Excess weight and smoking both increase the likelihood of acid reflux.

People who lose weight often notice an improvement in symptoms, and quitting smoking can also make a difference. While smoking was once thought to aid digestion, it’s now known to disrupt the digestive system and contribute to reflux.

Lifestyle changes are important, but medications can also help manage symptoms.

Over-the-counter options like antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, while alginates form a protective barrier in the esophagus. These treatments can provide relief, but they aren’t suitable for everyone.

Always read labels carefully and consult a pharmacist if you’re unsure which option is right for you.

Some medications meant to treat other conditions can actually trigger or worsen acid reflux.

If symptoms seem to appear or intensify after starting a new prescription, it’s worth discussing with a doctor. In many cases, an alternative medication can be found without the same side effects.

If diet changes and over-the-counter options aren’t doing much, a doctor may step in with stronger medications.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce how much acid your stomach produces. Some people only need them for a few weeks, while others stay on them longer if symptoms keep coming back.

They’re generally effective, but side effects like headaches or stomach upset can happen, so it may take a bit of adjustment to find the right fit. Another option, called an H2 blocker, works in a similar way and may be used instead.

Surgery is usually a last resort, but it can help in more severe cases.

One common procedure tightens the muscle that keeps stomach acid from moving upward. It’s done using small incisions rather than open surgery, but it still requires anesthesia and some recovery time.

Most people are back on their feet within a few weeks, though it can take a bit longer to fully get back to normal.

Newer surgical options are also being explored.

One example is the LINX procedure, which involves placing a ring of magnetic beads around the lower esophagus to help keep it closed when not swallowing. While early results are promising, long-term outcomes are still being studied.

Acupuncture has gained attention as a complementary treatment for acid reflux.

While once dismissed by conventional medicine, some studies suggest it may help reduce symptoms caused by acid exposure. Newer approaches sometimes combine traditional needling with mild electrical stimulation.

Interest in herbal remedies continues to grow, especially among those concerned about medication side effects.

Common options include ginger root and marshmallow root, both believed to help soothe the digestive system. Baking soda is also used by some as a natural antacid.

However, herbal treatments aren’t risk-free and can interact with medications, so it’s best to consult a doctor before trying them.