Avoiding Overfeeding
Avoiding overfeeding is one of the best ways to alleviate the discomfort associated with peptic ulcer disease. Instead of a one-sitting binge, one should focus on eating smaller meals spread out throughout the day. Similarly, after eating, patients should wait at least 3 hours before going to bed or lying down (Woo & Robinson, 2015). They should also monitor their weight gain, as any extra pounds overpressurize the esophageal sphincter, causing digestive acids and food to flow back into the esophagus and mouth. However, one should check with their doctor to choose the optimal weight loss strategy. Comparably, individuals should avoid pieces of clothes that fits tightly around the waist region to avoid putting too much pressure on the abdominal area. In the event the reflux becomes frequent during the night, one should consider elevating the head side of the bed. Such approach can entail using box spring as well as inserting wedge-shaped installations under the mattress. The use of pillow can also complement the efforts. Individuals should also avoid smoking, as chemicals in the tobacco compromise the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter tone in preventing acid regurgitation (Bernhard, 2011).
Seeking Medical Attention
Despite the effectiveness of the approaches in reducing the discomfort of reflux, the most important aspect is seeking medical attention. The home remedies are short-term fixes to ensure the quality of life is not negatively affected. One need to request acid reducers drugs as they offer better relieve from pain and burning sensation, especially in recurring PUD. The prescription should be coupled with proton pump inhibitors drugs that block the production of digestive acid to promote recovery (Malfertheiner et al., 2007).
References
Bernhard, D. (Ed.). (2011). Cigarette smoke toxicity: Linking individual chemicals to human diseases. John Wiley & Sons.
Malfertheiner, P., Megraud, F., O’Morain, C., Bazzoli, F., El-Omar, E., Graham, D., Hunt, R., Rokkas, T., Vakil, N., & Kuipers, E. J. (2007). Current concepts in the management of helicobacter pylori infection: the Maastricht III consensus report. Gut, 56(6), 772-781.
Woo, T. M., & Robinson, M. V. (2015). Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practice nurse prescribers. FA Davis.
