Patient was educated on risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease as follows:
- Obesity
- Overweight and obese individuals have more abdominal fat, which can exert pressure on the abdomen, especially in a position of lying down on the back.
- Increased pressure on the abdomen can drive the acid contents up into the esophagus, precipitating attacks of GERD.
- Eating big meals
- Big meals can exert more pressure in the abdomen and help force the acid contents up into the esophagus, precipitating attacks of GERD.
- Eating close to bedtime
- Gravity acting on an upright individual helps to keep the acid in the stomach.
- Going to bed too shortly after eating can be a significant risk factor, as the gravity is neutralized, making attacks of GERD more likely.