Common triggers and modulators of reflux-like symptoms*
Common triggers and modulators of reflux-like symptoms*
Category
Trigger or modulator
Eating behaviors
Eating too fast
Large portions
Eating past satiety
Eating too close to bedtime
Dietary factors
Fatty/fried foods
Spicy foods (capsaicin)
Excess alcohol
Excess coffee
Carbonated beverages
Patient-specific trigger foods
Lifestyle
Weight gain
Tight garments
Belts
Tobacco use
Excessive exercise
Medications
Anti-inflammatory medicines
Antihypertensives
Erectile dysfunction medicines
Emotional or behavioral factors
High-stress environment
Hypervigilance
* In most instances, only some of these factors are pertinent to an individual patient. Clinicians should assess for specific triggers and individualize recommendations to avoid guidance that is overly restrictive or overwhelming.