Do Bed Risers Work For Gerd Reddit

Do Bed Risers Work for GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, regurgitation, and other uncomfortable symptoms. While there is no cure for GERD, there are a number of things that can be done to manage the condition, including lifestyle changes and medication. One common home remedy for GERD is to elevate the head of the bed using bed risers.

There is some evidence to suggest that bed risers may be helpful for reducing GERD symptoms. A study published in the journal Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that elevating the head of the bed by 6 inches (15 centimeters) significantly reduced heartburn symptoms in patients with GERD. The study also found that bed risers were more effective than other common GERD remedies, such as sleeping on a wedge pillow.

However, it is important to note that not all studies have shown a benefit from using bed risers for GERD. A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that elevating the head of the bed did not improve GERD symptoms in patients who were taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a type of medication that is used to reduce stomach acid production.

Overall, the evidence on the effectiveness of bed risers for GERD is mixed. Some studies have shown a benefit, while others have not. If you are considering using bed risers to manage your GERD symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if bed risers are right for you and how to use them safely.

Here are some additional tips for using bed risers to manage GERD symptoms:

Start by elevating the head of your bed by 6 inches (15 centimeters). You can do this by placing bed risers under the legs of your bed.
Gradually increase the elevation of your bed by 2 inches (5 centimeters) every few nights until you find the height that is most comfortable for you.
Avoid elevating your head of bed too high, as this can put strain on your neck and back.
If you have any underlying medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, be sure to talk to your doctor before using bed risers.

Using bed risers is a simple and inexpensive way to manage GERD symptoms. However, it is important to talk to your doctor first to make sure that bed risers are right for you.