Q: I am suffering from stomach problem. Whenever my stomach is empty I start getting belching with slight burning sensation in the oesophagus. I am taking tablet Happi twice a day before breakfast and dinner and tablet Ganaton thrice a day before breakfast, lunch and dinner. I am taking only bland food. Though there seems to be some improvement, still I feel uneasy at times especially in the morning when the stomach is empty.

A:Your symptoms are typical of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). In this problem, there is laxity of the junction between our food pipe and the stomach, that leads to acid refluxing up in to the food pipe from the stomach. The diagnosis is usually made from clinical symptom and an endoscopy. Most patients get good relief in symptoms from medications: acid suppressants and prokinetic agents. There are several of them available in the market and your doctor can prescribe you the same. In addition, there is a big role of life style changes which I strongly advocate. Some of these include: *avoiding hot, spicy and fatty meals *Instead of large meals at one go, take small frequent meals *Do not lie down within an hour of your last meal *Elevate head end of your bed by a brick *Avoid cola beverages, nuts, chocolates *No smoking and alcohol *Weight reduction for those who are overweight I am sure that with above measures coupled with medications, you can get good relief in your symptoms.