What Is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the stomach contents back up or reflux into the esophagus and/or mouth. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — the muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach — is too weak or relaxes at the wrong time, allowing acid and stomach contents to splash upward.
Common Symptoms
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
- Stomach pain or chest pain
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth, including during sleep
- Hoarseness or laryngitis
- Sore throat or a persistent need to clear the throat
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing food, liquids, or medications
- Sensation of a lump in the throat
- Chronic cough, wheezing, or nighttime cough
- Chronic ear pressure or sinus infections
- Worsening symptoms after meals, when bending over, or when lying down
Why GERD Must Be Treated
Left untreated, chronic acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus over time, potentially leading to:
- Inflammation or irritation (esophagitis)
- Bleeding ulcers
- Strictures (narrowing of the esophagus from scarring)
- Barrett's esophagus — a precancerous change in the esophageal lining
- Esophageal cancer
Foods and Beverages to Avoid
The following can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter or increase acid production:
- Caffeine — coffee, tea, energy drinks, caffeinated soda
- Alcohol — beer, wine, spirits
- Chocolate
- Peppermint and spearmint
- Fatty or fried foods — fast food, greasy meals, full-fat dairy
- Tomato-based products — marinara, ketchup, salsa, tomato juice
- Citrus fruits and juices — oranges, lemons, grapefruit, lemonade
- Spicy foods
- Carbonated beverages — soda, sparkling water
- Onions and garlic
Lifestyle Changes That Help
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals — large meals increase stomach pressure
- Do not lie down within 2–3 hours after eating
- Elevate the head of your bed 6–8 inches using bed risers or a wedge pillow — gravity helps keep acid down while you sleep
- Lose weight if overweight — excess abdominal weight increases pressure on the LES
- Stop smoking — nicotine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing around the waist
- Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
- Stay upright after meals — a short walk can help
Questions?
If your symptoms are not improving with dietary changes, or if you develop new or worsening symptoms, please contact our office. Your provider may recommend medication, further testing (such as a pH probe study or endoscopy), or a specialist referral.
Don’t let allergies slow you down. Schedule a comprehensive ENT and allergy evaluation at Sleep and Sinus Centers of Georgia. We’re here to find your triggers and guide you toward lasting relief.