Issue Date: November 13, 2005
Overeating can be a pain
A feast often triggers heartburn and GERD.
By Dr. Tedd Mitchell
Holidays go hand in hand with lots of food, which can result in heartburn, a temporary inconvenience. Less common, but more problematic, is chronic heartburn -- episodes of acid indigestion two or more times a week. That may signal gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Its symptoms are heartburn and regurgitation, and they may include chest pain, cough, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.
We can control some factors that contribute to GERD, such as alcohol consumption and weight gain, as well as smoking and eating certain foods. Often, those who suffer from GERD can figure out which foods are triggers.
Improving your diet and losing weight can help to control symptoms. Minimizing alcoholic and caffeinated beverages is effective, too. And kicking the smoking habit can be a big relief for the stomach, as well as for other organs.
Other tricks that can help:
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid tight-fitting garments, which can "squeeze" the stomach's contents up into the food pipe.
Have dinner early in the evening so you're not lying down right after eating.
Raise the head of your bed several inches. The slight elevation can provide relief if you have a lot of regurgitation at night.
Another option: This year, make the focus of your family gathering something other than food. Play games, or watch old home movies. Your family will enjoy the occasion more, and your belly will thank you.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., is medical director of the Wellness Program at the Cooper Clinic.
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