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Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux occurs when the acid in your stomach backs up, or refluxes, into your esophagus, causing feelings of heartburn.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is chronic acid reflux that occurs regularly (more than twice a week for a few weeks). GERD affects about 20% of Americans and could lead to more serious health problems over time.

Get the Treatment you Need

To treat and control acid reflux or GERD, we offer a wide variety of prescription treatments specific to your needs. All medications are FDA-approved and shipped to you for free. Insurance is accepted.

Proton Pump Inhibitors
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Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) lower the amount of acid your stomach makes and can help heal the esophageal lining in most people with GERD. Doctors often prescribe PPIs for long-term GERD treatment.

  • Omeprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Prilosec)
  • Pantoprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Protonix)
  • Lansoprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Prevacid)
  • Esomeprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Nexium)
  • Rabeprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Aciphex)
  • Omeprazole and Sodium Carbonate (combination; generic for Zegerid)
  • Dexlansoprazole DR (delayed release; generic for Dexilant)
H2 Blockers
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H2 blockers decrease acid production in your stomach. They provide short-term or on-demand relief for many people with acid reflux and GERD symptoms, and are often used with over-the-counter antacids.

  • Cimetidine (generic for Tagamet)

    Stop suffering from acid reflux or GERD.

    Prescription strength medications can offer long-lasting relief.

    Get Treated
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    Learn About Acid Reflux & GERD

    Do you have acid reflux or GERD? What triggers them and when does it happen? Follow tips from our Alpha Providers.

    Symptoms and Risk Factors
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    SYMPTOMS

    • A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night
    • Chest pain
    • Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
    • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • With nighttime acid reflux, you might also experience: chronic cough, laryngitis, new or worsening asthma, and disrupted sleep

    RISK FACTORS

    • Obesity or overweight
    • Pregnancy
    • Hiatal Hernia (bulging of the top of the stomach up into the diaphragm)
    • Delayed stomach emptying
    • Smoking
    • Taking certain medications
    Tips & Advice
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    TIPS TO AVOID AND CONTROL ACID REFLUX

    • Avoid overeating
    • Avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime
    • Avoid foods and drinks that trigger reflux, like fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine
    • Try an over-the-counter antacid

    LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT MAY HELP REDUCE THE FREQUENCY OF ACID REFLUX

    • Maintain a healthy weight - excess weight can put pressure on your abdomen, pushing your stomach up and causing acid to reflux into your esophagus
    • Quit smoking - smoking inhibits the esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly
    • Don’t lie down after eating - stay upright for at least 3 hours after meals and avoid reclining and slouching when sitting
    • Elevate the head of your bed - raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by safely putting blocks under the bedposts (just using extra pillows will not help)

    How it works

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    A medical provider will review your responses and send an appropriate treatment plan. Your care is evidence-based and personalized at every visit.

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    Get Whole-person Care

    Your care team will respond to any questions through our secure messaging platform and you can get medication at your preferred pharmacy.

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