@blue717: if I were you I would stop including foods that are known to irritate hiatal hernias and esophagus (google or call dr office for their list) from your diet. Every episode you endure could be causing more harm. Tums can only react to acid already formed. Nurse may choose to be helpful when you inquire about “stopping the acid formation” rather than relieving discomfort. I have had Gerd for at least 40 years and have learned that certain foods & drink (alcohol is BAD on so many levels). I wait until at least 4 hr after eating to lay prone. I stopped taking rx drug for Gerd and take OTC Famotidine 20mg in am and occasionally another before bed if I think I will have problem overnight (but not very often). I can’t remember last time I had Gerd because I have chosen to change my consumption of food/drink.
If you do suffer Gerd I recommend drink excessive amounts of water immediately to dilute acid, use TUMS, Pepto Bismal, eat some yogurt, but keep drinking water - no alcohol!
I hope my experiences will help you tonight! dbamos1945