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7 Tips for Easing Nighttime Acid Reflux - 2
4. Stop smoking
Nicotine can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, which can lead to stomach
contents entering the esophagus, with heartburn as a result. Smoking also
stimulates the production of stomach acid.
5. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol increases the production of stomach acid. Alcohol also relaxes the lower
esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach contents to reflux back up into the
esophagus.
6. Take an antacid when heartburn hits
Antacids will work very quickly on heartburn you may be experiencing before you
go to bed. It also can be used for those heartburn episodes that wake you up
during the night if the heartburn comes back. An H2 blocker will work for a
longer period of time, usually up to 12 hours. Another option is to combine the
two. You should discuss this with your physician to determine what is the best
treatment for you.
7. What to do if the nighttime heartburn continues
If you continue to experience frequent heartburn symptoms at night, see your
health care provider. You will be able to discuss with your physician the
different treatment options.
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