Eat smaller meals
Avoid eating within 2–3 hours of bedtime
Identify and limit trigger foods (fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods like citrus and tomatoes, carbonated drinks)
Reduce or avoid smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Wear loose-fitting clothing around the abdomen
Sleep with the head of the bed elevated 6–8 inches (use blocks or a wedge; avoid only extra pillows)
Try left-side sleeping
Chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva
Stay hydrated
Avoid large volumes of fluids with meals
Consider spacing liquids from meals if they worsen symptoms
Review medications with a clinician (some can worsen reflux, such as certain blood pressure meds, nitrates, and some pain relievers)
Use over-the-counter options as directed:
Antacids for quick, short-term relief
H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine) for longer relief
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) for frequent symptoms as directed
Use the lowest effective dose and reassess regularly
If symptoms persist, worsen, or occur more than twice a week, seek medical care
Seek urgent care for trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained weight loss, persistent chest pain, or anemia