Can you have acid reflux without heartburn?
Saturday, August 29th, 2009 at
3:33 am
I am planning on seeing my doctor, but lately I’ve been having trouble falling asleep because of what I think may be acid reflux. The symptoms are very subtle. I have either no heartburn, or very little heartburn. I usually experience the feeling of acid coming up right as I’m about to lose consciousness (half asleep). If I’m laying down fully awake, no problems. It’s only when I’m about to fall asleep. It also doesn’t seem to wake me up when I am asleep.
Also, must an endoscopy always be performed to diagnose this?
Filed under: Heartburn Questions
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The type of night time acid reflux is not uncommon. It can be a dangerous condition so you should take it seriously. However, there are may steps that you can take without needing to see a doctor:
Here are a few helpful tips:
1. Don’t eat within 2-3 hours of bed time.
2. Don’t drink alcoholic beverages within 6 hours of bed time.
3. Take an antacid such as Tums or Rolaids before bed.
4. Consider an acid reducer such as Zantac before bed.
5. Put blocks under the head of your bed to raise it 4 inches.
6. Avoid Caffeine 6-8 hours before bed time.
regarding the endoscopy, I think the answer depends on your doctor. I was treated with medication for years before I had to have an endoscopy done.
I dont suffer from acid reflux but this site has lots of information about it.
Hope it helps!