Avoid large meals; eat smaller portions
Don’t lie down for at least 2–3 hours after eating
Elevate the head of your bed 6–8 inches (use a wedge pillow or bed risers)
Identify and avoid trigger foods (common ones: spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, mint, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, citrus, tomatoes, garlic, onions)
Stop smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Wear loose clothing around the abdomen
Chew food slowly and eat more slowly
If symptoms occur after specific foods, avoid them
Use over-the-counter antacids for quick, short-term relief (follow label directions)
Use alginate products (e.g., “raft-forming” antacids) for reflux relief (follow label directions)
Use H2 blockers for longer relief than antacids (e.g., famotidine; follow label directions)
Use a proton pump inhibitor if needed for frequent symptoms (e.g., omeprazole; follow label directions and do not exceed recommended duration)
Consider timing medication appropriately (antacids as needed; H2 blockers for symptom control; PPIs typically before meals)
Manage constipation if present
Review medications with a clinician if symptoms started after a new drug (e.g., some pain relievers, certain blood pressure meds, or steroids can worsen reflux)
Seek urgent care if you have chest pain/pressure, trouble breathing, sweating, fainting, vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, or trouble swallowing
Contact a clinician if symptoms occur more than 2 days per week, persist after 2 weeks of OTC treatment, or cause unintended weight loss, anemia, or ongoing vomiting