Thursday, February 21, 2008

Is GERD Causing Sleep Problems?

Is GERD Causing Sleep Problems?
Suggestions to tame your heartburn

(HealthDay News) - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause symptoms during the night that can prevent a good night's sleep.

The National Sleep Foundation offers these suggestions to keep GERD symptoms calm at night:

* Be careful of the foods you eat from late afternoon until bedtime. Try to avoid spicy foods, onions and chocolate.
* Eat a larger meal at lunch, and have a small, light dinner.
* Don't eat anything after two or three hours before you plan to go to bed.
* Don't drink alcohol or smoke before bed.
* Sleep on a pillow or two, with your head and shoulders elevated.
* Try sleeping on your left side.

-- Diana Kohnle

This is a story from HealthDay, a service of ScoutNews, LLC.
Copyright © 2008 ScoutNews LLC. All rights reserved.

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