Last week I had to see the doctor because I couldn’t sleep for a whole night due to intense pain in my stomach. It was so bad that I even got up and ran to the toilet because I thought I was going to throw up when my mouth started to water all of a sudden. At first I thought it was food poisoning so I figured I might feel a lot better after throwing up so I stuck a finger down my throat but nothing came out. I tossed and turned the whole night and barely got any sleep.
The doctor concluded that it was a case of acid reflux. The causes?
✓ Eating too much spicy food ☹
✗ Too much fatty or oily food
✗ Too much coffee and/or chocolate
✗ Skipping meals in between for too long and ending up eating a big meal in the end
✓ Eating 2 hours before bedtime
✗ Drinking excessively
✗ Smoking
* * * * *
Besides the medicine the doctor prescribed and avoiding the causes listed above, this would help too:
☛ Eat smaller portions and never skip meals
☛ Sleep with your head in an elevated position using 2 pillows
☛ Make it a habit of chewing gum or cough drops as this would create more saliva in your mouth which helps to wash down any left over acids from your esophagus and throat
☛ Drink more water
☛ Sleep only 2 to 4 hours after having your dinner
☛ Losing weight
* * * * *
I really hate that I have to cut down on spicy food. I also have this bad habit of having a little snack before bed. I mean, your body’s going to fast for 6-8 hours while you sleep so you gotta give it something, right? Wrong.
Anyway, last night, I was stubborn again and was at a Thai restaurant for dinner with some friends. I already had a Subway sandwich for dinner and was meant to catch up with them but I couldn’t help myself when it comes to spicy tom yum soup. It was one of my vice! I had a small bowl and faced the consequences the same night. My stomach hurt so bad, I was up every 2 hours. It wasn’t as bad as the first time but it was hell. Got up at 6am for a morning call (work) and went straight the gym for 40 mins of cardio.
My body feels good but my stomach is being a bitch. Damn you, tom yum soup.
*A couple of friends recommended Nexium (40mg) or Omeprazole (20 mg). Might check that out at the pharmacy later if this becomes a fuss.
actually i would recommend an antacid first for gastric reflux.. its the safest and mildest.. if only after u have taken antacid and it still doesnt work, then go for omeprazole.. cos omeprazole is actually a strong drug.. hope your tummy’s ok!:)
take care fay!
Fay,
Be aware that Nexium is a prescription med in most countries.
Long term use, more than 5 years, may in a percentage of the populace show development of stomach or intestinal polyps.
Best idea given, eat 5 to 6 snack meals, and never, never allow yourself to feel hungry.
Best of luck handling GERD.
David
But have to admit, the tomyum smelt / looked too good to resist! Just stop adding chilli padi into everything you eat and you’ll be fine! :-p