Avoid large meals and do not eat within 2–3 hours of bedtime
Eat smaller, slower meals
Limit trigger foods (fatty/spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, alcohol, citrus, tomatoes, garlic/onions, carbonated drinks)
Maintain a healthy weight
Stop smoking
Elevate the head of your bed 6–8 inches (use blocks or a wedge; avoid extra pillows)
Wear loose clothing around the abdomen
Chew sugar-free gum and consider staying upright after eating
Stay hydrated
If needed, try antacids for quick, short-term relief (e.g., calcium carbonate)
Consider an H2 blocker for short-term control (e.g., famotidine)
Consider a proton pump inhibitor for frequent symptoms (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole)
Use OTC medications according to label directions or clinician guidance
If symptoms persist, occur more than twice a week, or require frequent OTC treatment, see a clinician
Seek urgent care if you have chest pain with sweating/shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or persistent vomiting