Avoid trigger foods and drinks (spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, alcohol, citrus, tomatoes, carbonated beverages)
Eat smaller meals
Don’t lie down for 2–3 hours after eating
Elevate the head of the bed 6–8 inches (use blocks or a wedge; avoid extra pillows alone)
Maintain a healthy weight
Wear loose clothing around the abdomen
Stop smoking
Review medications with a clinician if symptoms worsen (e.g., some blood pressure meds, NSAIDs)
Use antacids as needed for quick, short-term relief
Use H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine) for recurring symptoms
Use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole) for frequent symptoms as directed
Consider alginate therapy (forms a barrier to reduce reflux) if available
Manage constipation if present
Keep a symptom diary to identify personal triggers
Seek urgent care for alarm symptoms (trouble swallowing, food getting stuck, vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent symptoms despite treatment)
Arrange medical evaluation if symptoms occur more than 2 days per week, require ongoing medication, or recur after stopping treatment
Ask a clinician about testing (e.g., endoscopy, pH monitoring) if indicated
Discuss procedural or surgical options with a specialist if medication is insufficient or not desired (e.g., fundoplication, endoscopic therapies)