In an adult, a typical symptom is heartburn, especially when bending forward or lying down. The pain may spread to the jaw and down the arms, similar to an attack of angina pectoris. Other symptoms include hiccups, a dry cough, regurgitation, and more forceful heartbeat. Until this occurs, the baby should sleep in a crib with the head raised and be given feedings that are thicker than usual. An overweight adult patient must lose weight and sleep propped up on a pillow.
Antacid preparations can help to relieve heartburn.
The patient is generally encouraged to eat a main meal at lunchtime and have a light supper, with no food being consumed after supper. If these measures fail to bring adequate relief or if the symptoms worsen, drugs may be used to decrease the amount of acid in the stomach or to prevent the acid from moving upward into the esophagus. Corrective surgery may be necessary if these measures fail. This can be done laparoscopically.