While almost everyone gets occasionally heartburn, those with Gastroesophageal reflux disease (otherwise known as GERD), frequently suffer from heartburn at least twice a week. It is a more chronic and severe form of acid reflux. Acid reflux is what causes “heartburn” and occurs when the contents from the stomach move back up into the esophagus. It creates an uncomfortable burning sensation and often a bitter taste. Besides being uncomfortable, it can lead to other health conditions.
Some common risk factors may make it more likely that your loved one will develop GERD or struggle with heartburn more than several times a week. Knowing the risk factors can help you help your loved one reduce the chance of him developing GERD and having to partake in medical or pharmaceutical ways to keep it under control. Here are some of the top risk factors for GERD and how to reduce them when possible.
Being Overweight
Elder Care Levittown, NY: Gastroesophageal reflux disease
If your loved one is overweight, especially from frequently eating large or heavy meals, it might put him more at risk for GERD. When large meals are consumed, the contents cause distension in the upper part of the stomach, reducing the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), so that it doesn’t close properly. The LES is a circular band of muscle on the esophagus that prevents stomach contents from entering.
One of the best ways to prevent GERD from this risk factor is to lose weight and reduce the overall size of meals. Having someone like an elder care provider help with portioning and preparing meals can make sure your loved one doesn’t overeat at mealtime.
Drinking Lots of Alcohol
The more alcohol a person drinks, the more likely he is to develop GERD. Reducing alcohol intake, or cutting it out altogether can help reduce the occurrences of acid reflux.
Consuming Certain Food Triggers
If your loved one is having recurring bouts of acid reflux, have him keep a food diary to see if he is eating any of the foods known to stimulate acid reflux. Common foods include citrus fruits, tomatoes, fried foods, onions, coffee, and soda. When shopping with his elder care provider, have a shopping list that contains alternates to these foods so he can still have a delicious diet, but avoid trigger foods.
Taking a lot of aspirin
If your loved one has chronic pain, such as arthritis, and takes a lot of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), they might be causing him to have a lot of heartburn. You’ll want to talk to his doctor about other solutions for managing his pain.
Lying down too soon after a meal
Encourage your loved one to take a walk with his elder care provider around the block a few times after he eats, or even work on a puzzle to spend some more time awake after eating. Lying or going to sleep right after a meal can cause acid reflux.
Don’t let heartburn get in the way of your loved one enjoying his days. Help him find relief and seek out a doctor’s advice as you do so.