How To Calm A GERD Flare-Up Posted on September 25, 2026 by Goodyear Office Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows backward into the esophagus. A flare-up can happen when something temporarily makes reflux worse, such as a large meal, lying down soon after eating or consuming foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms. You might notice a flare-up after eating a particularly spicy dish at Fiesta Mexicana. When a GERD flare-up hits, the goal is to reduce the reflux and give your esophagus and throat a chance to settle down. For many people, that means avoiding personal food triggers, staying upright after eating, adjusting nighttime habits and using reflux medication as directed. What To Do During A GERD Flare-Up Start with a few simple changes rather than trying to overhaul everything at once. Stay upright after meals and eat at least three hours before bed For the next few meals, skip foods or drinks you already know tend to trigger your symptoms. Common triggers can include spicy or high-fat foods, coffee, chocolate, mint and alcohol.[1] If nighttime reflux is a problem, raising the head of your bed or propping your head up on a pillow can help keep acid from moving upward while you sleep Medications like antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can provide short-term relief How Long Does A GERD Flare-Up Last? A GERD flare-up can improve once the trigger is removed, but the duration varies from person to person. If symptoms keep returning or don’t improve with lifestyle changes and appropriate medication, it’s worth having your treatment plan reviewed. How An ENT Can Help Manage Reflux Long-Term An ENT specialist will review your symptoms and help you find the best treatment path forward. Treatment may include additional lifestyle changes, prescription-strength medication or, in more severe cases, surgery to prevent the regular release of stomach acid. You don’t have to keep treating one flare-up after another. Contact Goodyear Office to schedule your treatment consultation with one of our trusted ENT experts. A Guide To Voice Recovery After IllnessThe Connection Between Acid Reflux and Throat HealthWhat To Know About Dry Heat and Your ENT Health [1] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Treatment for GER & GERD. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/treatment