Heartburn isn’t uncommon. Many people feel the pain and burn of acid coming back up the esophagus in the middle of the night. If this sounds like something you are struggling with, there are a few simple things that may help give you some relief. Here are some tips to get started.
- Control what you are eating a bit more. Fried, fatty, and spicy foods are most likely to cause this. Alcohol and nicotine also make it worse. Avoid laying down for a few hours after eating these foods.
- Elevate your head and shoulders. With a bed wedge, which elevates your upper portion, you can help encourage acid reflux to flow downward instead of back up.
- Talk to your doctor about medication. Some people will need to seek out medical care to help minimize this ongoing risk. This is common after a period of time, as the esophagus becomes more accessible. Antacid tablets, for example, may help some. Others need prescription medications.
- Get exercise. Getting exercise can also help you to control your weight. Both can help you reduce your overall likelihood of developing this condition.
- Make nighttime a comfortable time. A supportive mattress is important, but so is having loose fitting clothing. This helps to take some of the pressure off of your esophagus, minimizing the likelihood of acid reflux from occurring.
Many people can improve their ability to sleep at night by controlling their acid reflux. Don’t overlook the value of seeking out help from your doctor. And, if the condition continues, it may be necessary to seek out more comprehensive treatment options. For many, just a few changes to the way you sleep and your lifestyle can give you the relief you simply need to have.
