Health Tip: Got GERD?

(HealthDay News) -- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when a muscle at the end of the esophagus does not close properly, allowing irritating stomach contents to leak back into the esophagus. Symptoms include heartburn and acid indigestion.

If you have these symptoms more than twice a week, it may be GERD.

Medication can help tame GERD, and the U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these additional suggestions to control symptoms:

• Avoid foods that may cause heartburn, like fatty, spicy or acidic foods.
• Eat small meals.
• Avoid eating right before bedtime.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.

-- Diana Kohnle

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