Health Information Center>Conditions InDepth

Medical Condition Library

Information Centers

Wellness Centers

Helpful Resources

Health Library Home>Conditions InDepth>Article

Reducing Your Risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Michael Jubinville, MPH

En Español (Spanish Version)

Reducing Your Risk

Talking to Your Doctor

Resource Guide

GERD happens slowly over time for many reasons. There is no way to prevent it. But, these steps can help:

If you smoke, talk to your doctor about how you can quit. Quitting will restore blood flow and nerve function to the esophagus.
Maintain a proper weight. Excess weight puts more pressure on the belly.
Exercise regularly—Moderate exercise helps with weight control and overall well-being.

REFERENCES:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116914/Gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-GERD. Updated September 14, 2017. Accessed August 20, 2018.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Merck Manual Professional Version. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Updated April 2018. Accessed August 20, 2018.

Last reviewed May 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daus Mahnke, MD Last Updated: 8/20/2018

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.