Patient was educated on risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease as follows:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.