Daily Column

November 20th, 2008

DEAR DR. GOTT:
You recently suggested a reader raise the head of his bed three to four inches to help reduce nighttime acid indigestion. However, adding a second pillow can be uncomfortable for some and wedge pillows can be expensive. I suggest he put the extra pillows under the mattress to raise his head. It is much more comfortable.

DEAR READER:
Simply using a second pillow is not an option in this case. This merely raises the head, leaving the neck at an angle. By placing wooden blocks under the feet of the headboard, the entire bed is angled slightly, putting the stomach lower than the head and neck. In this way gravity keeps the acid in the stomach.