What are the preventative treatments for GERD and heartburn?
Preventative and non-surgical treatments for acid reflux include: • Diet modification • Cessation of smoking and alcohol consumption • Examination of medications for caffeine, alcohol, etc. • Loss of excess weight • Avoidance of tight clothing and frequent bending • Sleeping with the head of the bead elevated Medications are typically prescribed when preventative measures prove ineffective, before surgery is recommended. The most common types of medication are H-2 blockers (Axid, Pepcid, Tagamet, Zantac), drugs that increase peristalsis and tighten the LES (Reglan) and proton pump inhibitors (Prevacid, Prilosec or Protonix).
