Health Tip: Is GERD Causing Sleep Problems?

Suggestions to tame your heartburn

(HealthDay News) - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause symptoms during the night that can prevent a good night's sleep.

Advertisement

Related Stories • Scientists ID Enzyme That Allows Dysentery Amoeba to Hide • Weight Loss After Gastric Bypass Is Key to Easing Diabetes • High-Volume Hospitals Better for Abdominal Aortic Rupture Repairs Related Videos DETECTING ACID REFLUX Relief For Chrohn's Sleepless Stomach -- Relief for Nighttime GERD Related Slides Abdominal Aneurysm Enzymes GERD Related Encyclopedia • Acidophilus • Belching • Diffuse Esophageal Spasm

The National Sleep Foundation offers these suggestions to keep GERD symptoms calm at night:

• Be careful of the foods you eat from late afternoon until bedtime. Try to avoid spicy foods, onions and chocolate.
• Eat a larger meal at lunch, and have a small, light dinner.
• Don't eat anything after two or three hours before you plan to go to bed.
• Don't drink alcohol or smoke before bed.
• Sleep on a pillow or two, with your head and shoulders elevated.
• Try sleeping on your left side.

-- Diana Kohnle