Acid Reflux (GERD) After 60
HealthyLivingAfter60 Editorial Team
Reviewed by the HealthyLivingAfter60 Editorial Team
Heartburn is not just an annoyance; chronic acid reflux, known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), can cause serious damage to your esophagus over time. For adults over 60, managing GERD requires a careful balance of lifestyle changes and medical supervision.
Why GERD Increases with Age
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between your esophagus and stomach. As you age, this muscle can weaken, allowing stomach acid to wash backward. Additionally, older adults are more prone to hiatal hernias (where the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm), which significantly increases reflux risk. Decreased saliva production also means there is less fluid to naturally wash acid back down into the stomach.
Expert Tip
"If you suffer from nighttime reflux, simply propping yourself up with extra pillows won't work—it just bends your neck. You need to elevate the head of your entire bed by 6 to 8 inches using bed risers or a wedge pillow that supports your entire upper torso." — HealthyLivingAfter60 Editorial Team
Managing GERD: Lifestyle vs. Medication
| Approach | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyle Modifications | Weight loss, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals. | Everyone; the first line of defense. |
| Antacids (e.g., Tums, Mylanta) | Neutralize existing stomach acid. | Mild, occasional heartburn. |
| H2 Blockers (e.g., Pepcid) | Reduce acid production. | Mild to moderate GERD; preventative use. |
| PPIs (e.g., Prilosec, Nexium) | Block acid production and heal the esophagus. | Severe GERD; should be monitored by a doctor. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Lying down after eating: Wait at least 3 hours after a meal before going to bed or reclining on the couch.
- ❌ Overusing PPIs without supervision: Long-term use of Proton Pump Inhibitors can reduce the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and B12, and may increase the risk of bone fractures.
- ❌ Wearing tight clothing: Belts or tight waistbands put physical pressure on the stomach, forcing acid upward.
Myth
Drinking milk coats the stomach and cures heartburn.
Fact
While milk may provide temporary relief, the fat and protein in dairy actually stimulate the stomach to produce more acid, often causing a rebound effect of worse heartburn later.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Consult a physician immediately if you experience difficulty or pain when swallowing, unexplained weight loss, vomiting blood, or if you have been taking over-the-counter heartburn medication more than twice a week for several weeks.
Bottom Line
GERD is highly treatable, but ignoring it can lead to severe esophageal damage. Start with strict lifestyle changes—smaller meals, weight management, and elevating the head of your bed—before relying on long-term daily medications.
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HealthyLivingAfter60 Editorial Team
Our editorial team creates evidence-based educational content focused on healthy aging, nutrition, exercise, chronic disease prevention, and wellness for adults over 60. Content is reviewed for accuracy and supported by trusted medical sources.
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