Long Island Medical Care Services

A LOOK AT GASTROESPHOGEAL REFLUX DISEASE
GAS1.gif (5517 bytes)

VALUABLE TAKE HOME TIPS

AVOID:
  • Smoking
  • Milk
  • Caffeine
  • Pepper
  • Alcohol
  • Citrus juices

AVOID  DIETARY IRRITANTS
wb01409_.gif (599 bytes) COFFEE, TEA, COCOA AND COLA BEVERAGES
contain caffeine which stimulates stomach-acid secretion.
You may choose from a variety of decaffeinated cola beverages and coffees.
GAS4.gif (2567 bytes) CITRUS JUICES
are very acidic and may cause discomfort

Chmpgls.wmf (14752 bytes)

 ALCOHOL
may stimulate acid secretion
milk.gif (1296 bytes) MILK
is a potent stimulator of acid secretion.
Nondairy substitutes may be advisable and are readily available.
tomato.gif (1513 bytes) TOMATO PRODUCTS
are highly acidic.
pepper.gif (2274 bytes) PEPPER
may irritate your stomach.
OTHER USEFUL TIPS
  • If medication is prescribed take it only as directed
  • Elevate the head of your bed; reflux symptoms are most bothersome at night.
  • Don't overeat, and avoid late-evening meals (don't eat within 3 hours of bedtime).
  • Lose weight if necessary.
  • Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing
  • Decrease or stop smoking: smoking reduces LES pressure.
This is a simplified presentation of gastroesophageal reflux disease that is designed to present basic information to patients.
MERCK
Compliments of Merck & Co.,Inc.

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