GERD Emergency Action Plan

When to Take Action

Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Action:

• Severe chest pain lasting more than 15 minutes
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Vomiting large amounts or unable to keep liquids down
• Severe abdominal pain with fever

Emergency Steps

1. Immediate Relief Measures

• Stop eating immediately
• Sit upright at 90 degrees
• Take prescribed rescue medication if available
• Sip clear fluids slowly

2. When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your gastroenterologist if:

• Symptoms persist for >2 hours despite rescue measures
• You experience recurring episodes within 24 hours
• You develop new or worsening symptoms

3. When to Seek Emergency Care

Go to the ER or call 911 if:

• Chest pain radiates to arms/jaw
• Shortness of breath becomes severe
• You experience dizziness or cold sweats
• You have difficulty swallowing for >4 hours

Prevention Plan

Daily Management

• Take medications as prescribed
• Maintain food diary
• Avoid trigger foods
• Eat 3 hours before lying down

Important Contacts

Keep these numbers readily available:

1. Gastroenterologist: [Insert number]
2. Primary Care: [Insert number]
3. Emergency: 911

Follow-up Care

Schedule appointment with your doctor if you experience:

• Frequent use of this plan
• Increasing severity of symptoms
• Need for medication adjustments