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It has happened to nearly all of us. You return home from a delicious meal out and are ready for a peaceful night of sleep. You drift off and before you know it, you wake up with a burning pain in your chest and throat that makes it impossible to fall back to sleep. This struggle is all too common for an estimated 70% of adults in the United States. Out of that 70%, for 1 in 3 Americans, the condition is chronic.

Imagine if you could reduce the discomfort associated with your Acid Reflux or GERD with a touch of a button. With the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System, now you can!

The Painful Truth About Acid Reflux

GERD and acid reflux symptoms often occur more frequently at night when lying in bed because our bodies are in a horizontal position – our stomach and head are at approximately the same level. This position makes it easy for the highly acidic contents of the stomach to flow into the esophagus, causing the painful sensation of heartburn. More importantly, when the contents of the stomach do move into the esophagus, they tend to stay longer than they would during the day when gravity helps pull them back into the stomach. The longer they are in contact with the esophagus, the more time they have to damage the cellular lining. Symptoms of nighttime reflux can be quite sever and wake up even the soundest sleepers. Ultimately, reflux disease prevents many people from getting a full nights rest. With inadequate sleep, this may lead to other health related issues and reduce your quality of life if not treated.

The Best Known Secret for Living with Reflux

In addition to losing weight, avoiding trigger foods and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake helps alleviate your reflux pain. While doctors always push healthy life style changes, they also share the most effective solution to combating your reflux, which simply is elevate your body while sleeping. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s Dr. Laura Gerson, “Head-of-bed elevation has been shown to be effective in terms of improving pH as well as GERD symptoms. Head-of-bed elevation is effective, particularly for subjects with nocturnal GERD, because of the fact that stomach contents containing acid will more likely reflux into the esophagus while patients are lying flat without the beneficial effect of gravity. Head-of-bed elevation has been associated with significantly fewer and shorter reflux episodes, faster acid clearing, and fewer reflux symptoms.”

Considering how effective elevated sleeping is for Acid Reflux and GERD, there are various solutions to help you reach the optimal incline if 6-8 inches to relieve your symptoms. Putting blocks under the head of bed is a simple and cheap way to raise your sleeping surface. However, this can be difficult to do if you are alone or elderly. The front legs of your bed also may not be strong enough to support the added pressure of the head of the bed being at an incline. Piling up pillows may seem like an easy fix, but this can actually be counterproductive as this position may cause your body to bend at the waist, adding to the upward pressure, or even worse, go flat. Pillows can also shift during the night and wedges can be unattractive and prohibitive to sleeping with a partner. Adjustable beds are an option but are often not in the budget. We think we’ve come up with the perfect solution.

Best Bed Wedge Solution for Back or Side Sleepers Struggling With Acid Reflux

Our new Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System is an inflatable bed wedge that is easy to install under any type of mattress and inflates easily by using the illuminated remote control. This inflatable wedge solution elevated your entire torso and hips up to 8 inches, which is the optimal include for treating heartburn and indigestion. With the full torso support, the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System is the perfect solution for those who sleep on their back, side or multi-positions at night. When not in use, the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System can be fully deflated, giving the appearance of any normal mattress. Standard  foam bed wedges are shorter in length than the ISS and which limits the sleeping surface, causing an unnatural bend at the hips which can increase pressure on the lower back and legs. The gentle slope provided by the Mattress Genie ISS virtually eliminates the possibility of slipping or sliding down which may occur when using a foam bed wedge or pillows.

There are many advantages to elevation therapy: it will reduce nighttime reflux episodes, promote faster acid clearing in the event of a reflux episode, and shorten the duration of stomach contents being in contact with the delicate lining of the esophagus, which will promote healing. Complications from nighttime reflux may be reduced resulting in improved quality of sleep which is so vital to our health and wellbeing. Visit https://www.contourliving.com/mattress-genie-incline-sleep-system-bed-wedge/ to learn more.  All of our Contour Branded products are covered under our 45 Day Comfort Guarantee and 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty. Start experiencing relief from the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD today with the Mattress Genie Incline Sleep System!

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Tips for Avoiding the Holiday Heartburn

Out of all the great things about the holiday, food is absolutely one of them. The side effects that come from eating these rich foods, however, not so much. With all of the cream cheeses, the candies, heavy meats (and whatever else your family craves come December), it can be rough on the digestive system. Not only in the stomach, but in your esophagus. The combination of eating heavy and eating often – sometimes there are too many fun parties to say no to – causes the body to retaliate. 

Rather than suffering through the goodies, follow these guidelines to gain relief … while still eating your favorite dishes.

Eat Lighter – We know, it can be tough not to stuff your face with Grandma's best meals, but going easy will help the digestion process later. You can always go for a second plate, just allow your body to have a break first.

Eat Healthy Too – The best-tasting foods are the worst for you. But that doesn't mean you can't sprinkle in some vegetables now and there. Healthier dishes will provide your body with nutrients, while helping to break down all the fats.

Eat Earlier … Or Go To Bed Later – It's the holidays, you're allowed to set your own schedule. Putting more time between dinner and sleeping in particular can ensure your body has had enough time to break down the latest meal. This reduces the risk of heartburn greatly.

Take a Tummy Settler – Milk (dairy or an alternative), a glass of water, home remedies, such as apple cider vinegar and honey, peppermint tea, etc., can all ease your esophagus before bed. Use these beverages to calm down your stomach acid in a natural way.

Sleep on an Incline – If it's bedtime and you can feel the heartburn on its way, use a wedge pillow to get better sleep. This will require stomach acid to essentially climb before causing pain. 

Enjoy the holiday snacks with these easy and effective heartburn killing tricks. 

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What is GERD? And How You Can Prevent It

There are hundreds of Americans who suffer from GERD each day. Some of who might not even know what it is that they're dealing with. GERD, which stands for gastro esophageal reflux disease, and takes place when stomach acid and digesting foods are not properly held in place by the lower esophageal sphincter (or LES). It's a trait that can lead to heartburn, acid reflux/indigestion, or even a stomachache. Oftentimes symptoms can depend on outside factors, such as what one ate, their position at the time, or their weight. 

Many suffer only after eating spicy food, when lying down after eating, or when pregnant. While others can feel the side effects even when eating mild, well-timed meals. 

So what gives? Like most illnesses, GERD is also affected by genes. Genetics can affect how severely your symptoms are felt, as well as how easily you're able to do away with them. 

Anyone suffering from GERD should talk to a doctor about a specific plan of action. Then, with doctor approval, can start working on reducing side effects from home. This can be done by losing weight, exercising, avoiding spicy or heavy foods, and eating at least three hours before bedtime. You should also avoid lying down, or even reclining too far, right after a meal. Sleeping on an inclined pillow and avoiding alcohol can also help keep GERD symptoms at bay. 

However, if you're still suffering from esophagus pain and discomfort, it might be time to have a second conversation with your doctor. In severe cases, medicines or even surgeries can work to eliminate GERD. They can also help point you in the right direction as to what lifestyle adjustments will work best with your GERD attacks. 

If you suffer from GERD, consider implementing some of these changes today. Or schedule an appointment with your doctor to learn more.  

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Contour Folding Wedge Cushion: The Reviews are in

Since it’s release, this wedge cushion has been one of our favorite products. It’s versatile, offers serious bedtime comfort, and can be adjusted to fit into a number of different positions. With all of these abilities, it’s no wonder the reviews have been coming in strong. 

Whether you’re looking to purchase a Contour Folding Wedge for yourself or a loved one, see what past and present customers have had to say about the cushion.

Customer Comments

“Cures my wife’s snoring,” John A., May 2014

“LOVE THIS PRODUCT!! SO much better than using 2-3 pillows! Gives great support to both neck and back.” Sarah, May 2014

“The wedge is superior in quality. It is far better than the wedge I purchased from a different manufacturer. I am using it for nighttime GERD and have seen improvement even though I have just started using it.” Mary Ann, April 2014

“Purchased 10 inch wedge. Only using for about a week but sleeping much better! Not waking up coughing from acid reflux and really helping with neck and back problems. Used to wake up with stiff neck and headache … not this week! :)” Sue, March 2014

“A great pillow!” Chris M., February 2014

“With the contour pillow, I am now sleeping better at night, no neck aches or backache in the mornings. Sinuses are much clearer also. Sure wish I'd have thought to try this a lot sooner than I have. And, the pillow is just the right height for me (10") plus, the cover does not let me slide down when I sleep on my side.” Susie H., January 2014

“The folding bed wedge is very comfortable and helps control my GERD. Recommended.” Larry G., November 2013

“I used to try and prop up two standard pillows, or a bigger pillow with a smaller pillow... didn't help. This wedge pillow is great.” Luci, July 2013

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The Benefits of the Folding Wedge Cushion

When reading, watching TV, or just trying to get comfortable, almost everyone has stacked their pillows into a propped position. Using one or more pillows, this toppling method helps raise the head while letting its creator lounge in the process. It may take consecutive minutes to achieve, but once in place, it’s a great way to hang out.

But what if there were a product that took care of the stacking on its own?

With the Folding Wedge Cushion, there’s no need to adjust and poke into place. Made for gradual inclines, this pillow allows sleepers to gain extra support without the effort. This bed wedge is great for sleeping, breathing patterns, and can help reduce various medical issues. Because the rise is gradual, it’s perfectly comfortable to sleep on all night – or fold it for reading or TV watching. This wedge pillow can morph into a number of different positions to meet your comfort and health needs.

What’s the Wedge?

The Contour Folding Wedge Cushion acts as a gentle support model, so sleepers can remain on an incline without feeling direct or sudden effects. This is ideal for natural sleeping habits, as it doesn’t interrupt comfort or body placement. Simply use the rising wedge underneath a traditional pillow (which gives important neck support), and feel the benefits of sleeping on a soft incline. 

 With the Folding Wedge, the head and upper body is slightly raised during sleep, which can help breathing patterns, especially during allergy or cold season. Choose the right height for you, or fold to gain extra lounging abilities before bed. It even comes with a removable velour pillowcase so your wedge is fresh and clean year-round. Zip it on for maximum staying power, or throw in the washer when it’s time to freshen up.

Other Benefits:

·       Encourages digestive comfort by slightlyelevating the upper body, which is great for reducing heartburn, GERD, and acid reflux.

·       Reduces muscle tension

·       Offers head and upper body support in a subtle manner. (No sharp turns or stiff boards here!)

·       Helps align the spine

The Folding Wedge pillow even comes in a variety of sizes – 7 inch, 10 inch, and 12-inch heights, to find the perfect fit.

Whether for medical use or just plain comfort, the Folding Wedge Cushion offers a great, universal fit to fulfill needs of all shapes and sizes.

Find out more about the FoldingWedge Cushion today.

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Sleeping With Acid Reflux

Acid Reflux is a condition in which the stomach acids rise up into the esophagus due to a faulty lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Some people experience the following symptoms bloating, burping, bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, hiccups, nausea, weight loss, wheezing, dry cough, hoariness or a chronic sore throat. Some people even experience dysphagia, which is a narrowing of the esophagus; this creates a sensation of food being stuck in the throat.

A lot of people who suffer from acid reflux complain that they have trouble sleeping and they cannot get a good night’s rest. This is because of the symptoms they feel resulting from the acid reflux. Not getting a good night’s sleep can lead to other health issues and loss productivity.

Here are some tips to help you deal with your acid reflux at night and hopefully you will get a good night’s rest!

1.   Change your diet, some foods and beverages are known to trigger acid reflux. These foods and beverages include:

·    Orange Juice

·    Peppermint

·    Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges

·    Spicy, fried foods and foods with a lot of fat

·    Vinegar

·    Alcohol

·    Garlic

·    Onions

·    Caffeine and carbonated beverages

·    Tomatoes and tomato products like ketchup

2.   Eat smaller meals frequently throughout the day; eating 5-6 small meals instead of 3 big meals can help control acid reflux.

3.   Wear loose fitting pajamas to bed, if you wear clothes that fit tight around your abdomen it can make your acid reflux symptoms worse.

4.   Lay on your left side, this can also help and control the acid reflux symptoms as it will align your body in a way as to not allow the acid to come back up from your stomach to your esophagus.

5.   Do not eat within 3-4 hours before you go to bed.

6.   Elevate your head to prevent the acids in your stomach from coming back up. You can use products especially made for acid reflux such as the Contour Folding WedgeCushion or the Mattress Genie adjustable bed wedge. These products can help to ease the symptoms of acid reflux, so you can get a good night’s sleep.

7.   Take medication there are over the counter medications available as well as prescription medications that you can take to help with acid reflux. Your doctor can help you decide what is right for you.

People experience acid reflux at night because they are lying down. When a person is lying down the stomach contents can easily come back up to the esophagus, if the lower esophageal sphincter is not functioning properly. If you are in the upright position your stomach contents will easily settle to the bottom of the stomach, it’s as simple as gravity. Acid reflux is curable condition when taken seriously and treated properly. If you suspect that you may have acid reflux, talk with your health care provider, he or she can perform certain tests to see if you indeed have it. They can also refer you to a specialist such as a gastroenterologist, who can also perform certain tests and he or she can help you come up with a treatment plan that is right for you. There is no need to suffer anymore, get treated as soon as possible.

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New Folding Bed Wedge Help Acid Reflux

At Contour Living keeping customers comfortable and healthy is their number one priority. That’s why they came up with the all new folding wedge cushion. The folding wedge cushion is designed to support the head and chest in an upright, slightly angled position comfortably. This design allows anybody to keep their  upper body raised during sleep.

This design provides many benefits to the user, such as providing a raised body position which is recommended forreducing symptoms from acid reflux, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), heartburn and other digestive conditions. Acid Reflux is a condition in which the stomach acids rise up into the esophagus; this is caused by a faulty valve that separates the stomach contents from the esophagus. GERD is short for gastroesophageal reflux disease and is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach backs up into the esophagus.

Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart, but rather is an irritation of the esophagus caused by acid that comes up from the stomach. Heartburn is also a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease which is more serious in nature.

By using the folding wedge you can prevent the acids from coming up into your esophagus, because the folding wedge will elevate your head and chest in an upright position. This is of great benefit to the user and can provide a restful and comfortable sleep. Normally when patients are diagnosed with any of the above conditions they are advised to keep their heads elevated and not lay down right after a meal.

Even if you don’t have any known condition, the folding wedge provides gentle support to help you sleep comfortably. The wedge is designed to fold fast in a compact fashion which makes it easier to store. The folding wedge provides gradual support, eases breathing and sinus pressure and also soothes muscle tension and helps support the spine. As you can see the folding wedge has many benefits and can make a great gift to anyone.

The folding wedge is available in 3 heights 7 inch, 10 inch and 12 inch. Each wedge cushion is 32” long for a gradual incline and 24” wide for one person to use; this is longer than any of their competitor’s wedges. The folding wedge comes with zippered velour cover and is machine washable.

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Help Me Get Off My Recliner!

No, I am not talking about couch potatoes or lazy people!  According to Kathryne Pirtle, writer for The Weston A Price Foundation, In the United States, sixty million people have acid reflux, or one in five people. Last year, hospitals recorded four hundred seventy thousand hospitalizations and almost two million emergency room visits from acid reflux.   As a result, there are many men and women who end up sleeping all night in their recliners because they have so much trouble lying down, sleeping in their own bed.  Stacking pillows in a huge pile under your head just do not seem to do the trick!  However, over time the recliner will loose its appeal and you will end up not sleeping well anywhere.  The solution is simple, invest in a good bed wedge that will allow you to sleep all night in your own bed and help alleviate some of your symptoms caused by GERD, acid reflux or sleeping disorders.

A wedge is a pillow shaped like a ramp which allows your body to rest in a gentle, natural reclining position.  The most common size bed wedge is 7 inches which is approximately a 20 degree incline starting at your head and ending at your waist.  Often, when you stack pillows to raise your head in bed you end up bending your abdomen in a way they may restrict the digestive tract which in turn, may worsen your reflux or other problems.

If you are recovering from surgery or are required to spend most of your time in bed then a taller wedge of either 10 or 12 inches may be a better choice.  In this case, a neck pillow will be useful to support your head which will allow you to be able to watch television, eat or read in bed comfortably and doze off to sleep when you get tired.

Your GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), acid reflux, belching, heartburn, sleep apnea and other breathing or digestive disorders often prevent you from getting a good nights sleep since they seem to worsen at night.  There are a number of other factors which will also increase the likelihood of a GERD flare-up including weight gain, smoking, certain foods, alcohol consumption, pregnancy and age.   Allowing gravity to help move everything toward your feet by sleeping on a bed wedge may help you get your best nights sleep ever!

Reference:
http://www.westonaprice.org/digestive-disorders/acid-reflux-a-red-flag

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New Folding Wedge Bed Cushion

Add gradual , inclined support to your bed, and sleep comfortably at an incline! Our new folding bed wedge cushion  provides a fast and easy way to support your head and chest in an upright position.  Adds a slight incline to your upper body during sleep.  This position is recommended for help in reducing digestive related symptoms from acid reflux, GERD and heartburn.   The folding design allows for compact storage.  Comes with a super-soft velour cover which is easily removed for machine washing!

• Adds gradual angled support
• Helps ease breathing and sinus pressure during sleep
• Helps reduce GERD and acid reflux symptoms during sleep
• Helps muscle tension and support the spine
• Folds in half for fast, compact storage
• Includes a soft velour cover - remove and machine wash!

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Rationale and efficacy of conservative therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Rationale and efficacy of conservative therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Kitchin et al. Arch Internal Med (1991).

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux disease or in mild cases heartburn, is an increasingly common condition in the developed world, characterized by frequent regurgitations of stomach acid into the lower esophagus. GERD can often be caused by a hiatal hernia, a condition where part of the stomach slips above the diaphragm to contact the esophagus. If left untreated, damage caused by severe GERD can cause replacement of the normal cells lining the esophagus by other tissue types (a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus), eventually leading to an increased risk of esophageal cancer. While acid-suppressive medications can be used, their potential side effects and complications can be avoided through a variety of simpler treatment measures. This review article finds significant clinical evidence for the efficacy of lifestyle-based treatments for heartburn and GERD, including elevation of the head of the bed.

Sleeping on a wedge diminishes exposure of the esophagus to refluxed acid. Hamilton et al. Digestive Dis Sciences (1988).

Using continuous monitoring of pH (acidity) within the esophagus among several alternative positions at rest, this randomized clinical trial detected a significant decrease in the time that the esophagus was exposed to highly acid conditions when using a foam wedge to elevate the head, and also showed a decrease in the time necessary for the acid to be cleared. Interestingly, use of a wedge-shaped mechanism was significantly more effective than elevation through the use of standard bed blocks.

See how the Mattress Genie Wedge Can Help

Davis C. Ryman

MD/PhD candidate, Case Western Reserve University

Lamb lab, Departments of Neuroscience and Genetics

dryman@po.cwru.edu

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Tips for Night-Time Relief of GERD & Acid Reflux Symptoms

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a very common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is known by many names, including Esophagitis, reflux, acid reflux, even (incorrectly) hiatal hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

Experts agree: Raising your upper mattress 6-9" helps alleviate many of the symptoms of GERD, acid reflux and heartburn*

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Along with heartburn, other symptoms include pain swallowing, chest pain, coughing, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, even tooth enamel decay, gingivitis and halitosis.

Treatments of GERD include over-the-counter medications like antacids and prescription strength medications. Heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD may be mild to severe. If you experience severe discomfort or heartburn several times a week, you should consult a physician.

There are several lifestyle recommendations you can make to help ease the discomfort of GERD and acid reflux:

• Control your weight / Lose weight if overweight
• Eat smaller meals
• Avoid reclining or lying down directly after a meal
• Eliminate certain foods or food types that may trigger heartburn
• Don't smoke
• Raise the head of your mattress 6-9 inches. Experts recommend elevating the bed by inserting a wedge between the mattress and box spring (raising your head with pillows is not a good alternative) (*source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095/DSECTION=9)

The Mattress Genie bed wedge, manufactured by Contour Living, provides a simple solution for raising your mattress and alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by GERD symptoms. With just the touch of a button, you can raise your bed to the angle that best suits your needs. You'll love reading, watching TV, working or even eating in bed. The Mattress Genie comes with a remote control to raise and lower the mattress with a touch of a button.

The Mattress Genie bed wedge is designed to compliment existing treatments of GERD, heartburn and reflux, including drug therapies and any treatments prescribed by your doctor.

Now Anyone Can Enjoy the Comfort & Luxury of an Adjustable Bed!

This universal bed lift, exclusively from Contour Products, Inc., transforms your mattress into an adjustable bed for a fraction of the cost of a mechanical adjustable bed.

What Our Customers Are Saying:
"Thank you so much for your wonderful invention! ... I can read, eat, sleep or sit up to watch TV for hours .." - Mrs. Lynne McGarity
"... my aunt is now able to get out of bed by herself! She is VERY happy with her Mattress Genie!" - Doris Skiba

"... I travel a lot ... and have severe acid reflux ... before I had to travel with a large wedge pillow ... with your Mattress Genie ... traveling [is] so much easier...Thanks again for coming up with the Mattress Genie!" - Gary Dolsey

What the Media is Saying:
Read the Mattress Genie Review at About UsNBC Affiliate Channel 2 Salt Lake City - "Let Bill Buy It" Review of the Mattress Genie...Read Now/Watch Video
Featured on NBC's Today Show (March 1, 2005)

Additional resources:Read about the Mattress Genie at About Us
Recommended diet: Jackson / Siegelbaum Gastroenterolgy
general GERD health information: STS Patient information
Medical Studies Supporting Raising a Bed to reduce GERD and Acid Reflux at Night
Support Pillows and

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Nighttime Solution for GERD, Acid Reflux and Heartburn Symptoms

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a very common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. GERD is known by many names, including Esophagitis, reflux, acid reflux, even (incorrectly) hiatal hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux is the term used to describe a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus.

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Along with heartburn, other symptoms include pain swallowing, chest pain, coughing, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, even tooth enamel decay, gingivitus and halitosis.

Treatments of GERD include over-the-counter medications like antacids and prescription strength medications. Heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD may be mild to severe. If you experience severe discomfort or heartburn several times a week, you should consult a physician.

There are several lifestyle recommendations you can make to help ease the discomfort of GERD and acid reflux:

• Control your weight / Lose weight if overweight
• Eat smaller meals
• Avoid reclining or lying down directly after a meal
• Eliminate certain foods or food types that may trigger heartburn
• Don't smoke
• Raise the head of your mattress 6-9 inches. Experts recommend elevating the bed by inserting a wedge between the mattress and box spring (raising your head with pillows is not a good alternative)**

The Mattress Genie bed lift wedge, manufactured by Contour Living, provides a simple solution for raising your mattress and alleviating the pain and discomfort caused by GERD symptoms. With just the touch of a button, you can raise your bed to the angle that best suits your needs. You'll love reading, watching TV, working or even eating in bed. The Mattress Genie comes with a remote control to raise and lower the mattress with a touch of a button.

Best of all, this universal bed lift transforms your mattress into an adjustable bed for a fraction of the cost of a mechanical adjustable bed.

**Source: www.MayoClinic.com/health

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