This is a simple, but inescapable fact one must face if you are overweight, many reflux problems are directly related to obesity. Bending and Stooping As much as is feasible, avoid stooping, lifting, bending, or straining as these maneuvers all promote gastric reflux. You should also avoid tight fitting clothing. There are many good over the counter antacids that help to chemically neutralize stomach acid. These can have side effects particularly for patients with certain conditions.
Antacids can also mask other possible problems like esophageal ulcers.
These are fast acting and designed to treat or infrequent symptoms. There are over the counter medications called H2 Blockers such as Pepsid AC, Tagamet HB and Zantac that are about half the strength of their prescription version. These products relieve heartburn in many patients by reducing the production of stomach acids. This is accomplished by switching off certain receptors in the stomach thereby helping control heartburn since there will be less acid produced. Prevacid and Prilosec are used with patients with severe reflux under the care of a physician.