DiagnosisYour health care provider might be able to diagnose GERD based on a history of your signs and symptoms and a physical examination. Show
To confirm a diagnosis of GERD, or to check for complications, your doctor might recommend:
TreatmentYour doctor is likely to recommend that you first try lifestyle changes and nonprescription medications. If you don't experience relief within a few weeks, your doctor might recommend prescription medication and additional testing. Nonprescription medicationsOptions include:
If you start taking a nonprescription medication for GERD, be sure to inform your doctor. Prescription medicationsPrescription-strength treatments for GERD include:
Surgery and other proceduresGERD can usually be controlled with medication. But if medications don't help or you wish to avoid long-term medication use, your doctor might recommend:
Because obesity can be a risk factor for GERD, your health care provider could suggest weight-loss surgery as an option for treatment. Talk with your provider to find out if you're a candidate for this type of surgery. Subscribe for free and receive your in-depth guide to digestive health, plus the latest on
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and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Clinical trialsExplore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Lifestyle and home remediesLifestyle changes may help reduce the frequency of acid reflux. Try to:
Alternative medicineSome complementary and alternative therapies, such as ginger, chamomile and slippery elm, may be recommended to treat GERD. However, none have been proved to treat GERD or reverse damage to the esophagus. Talk to your health care provider if you're considering taking alternative therapies to treat GERD. Preparing for your appointmentYou may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the digestive system (gastroenterologist). What you can do
Questions to ask your doctor
In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment anytime you don't understand something. What to expect from your doctorYour doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may leave time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked:
What is the strongest acid reflux medicine overOmeprazole: Best OTC Heartburn Medication
Omeprazole, commonly known as Prilosec, is a PPI that reduces the quantity of food-digesting acid made by the cells within the lining of your stomach. In fact, Prilosec was one of the first and strongest PPIs created to combat acid reflux.
What's the best thing to take for acid reflux?Antacids that neutralize stomach acid.
Antacids containing calcium carbonate, such as Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums, may provide quick relief.
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