After Your Doctor Visit
Your GERD diagnosis is only the beginning. It is important to continue to take
an active role in your treatment.
Follow your treatment plan as prescribed
After your visit, if your doctor has prescribed medication for
you, take your medication only as prescribed. Take it at the same time each
day. Don’t stop taking the medication if your symptoms stop. If you feel that
the medicine isn’t working, or if you experience any side effects, let your
doctor know. Take care to store your medicines in their original, labeled
containers in a dry, safe place away from children and pets.
Make diet and lifestyle changes
In addition to the prescribed medication, there are diet and
lifestyle changes that may help alleviate your symptoms as well. Incorporating
these suggestions into your daily routine can help you get the best relief
possible.
Monitor your symptoms
After your initial doctor visit, it is important that you
continue to monitor your symptoms. This will help you and your doctor decide
how well your therapy is working. A symptom diary can assist you in tracking
the information your doctor will need to know to gauge the effectiveness of
your treatment. In addition, a daily impact survey will help you and your
doctor monitor the impact GERD is having on your life after you start therapy.
You can customize this list by adding triggers and symptoms you have after
starting therapy.
Schedule a follow-up visit
To prepare for a follow-up visit with your doctor, print out
your symptom diary to discuss with your doctor. Your doctor will want to know
whether you have the same number and intensity of GERD symptoms after starting
therapy. This will help to determine how well your therapy is working.