Meals should be eaten two to three hours before lying down to lessen the chance of reflux. Elevate the head of the bed four to six inches. Lose weight, if overweight. Ask your pharmacist for a recommendation. Stop or decrease smoking, as cigarettes decrease the ability of the lower esophageal sphincter muscle to work properly.
Any chest pain requires prompt medical evaluation .
Other causes, such as heart disease, must be considered. Glossary Barrett's Esophagus - A change in the cells lining the esophagus that predisposes some people to the development of esophageal cancer. Chronic Condition - Frequent or regular event occurring over a long period of time. Duodenum - First part of the small intestine that joins the stomach to the middle part of the small intestine. Esophagitis - An irritation or inflammation of the esophagus.