Overview
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back up the food pipe, causing heartburn — a burning feeling rising behind the breastbone, often after meals or when lying down. Occasional heartburn is normal; frequent reflux deserves treatment to protect the food pipe.
Symptoms
- Burning sensation rising from the stomach to the chest
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Food or acid coming back up
- Worse after large, spicy or oily meals
- Worse when lying down or bending
- Chronic cough, hoarseness or throat clearing
Causes & risk factors
- Weakness of the valve between stomach and food pipe
- Large or late-night meals, fried and spicy food
- Obesity and pregnancy increasing abdominal pressure
- Smoking, alcohol and carbonated drinks
Treatment & self-care
Smaller meals, eating at least three hours before bed, raising the head of the bed and losing excess weight relieve most cases. Doctors may prescribe acid-reducing tablets for a defined period and review if symptoms persist. Long-standing reflux that does not respond needs further testing rather than indefinite self-medication.
See a doctor urgently if
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Unintended weight loss
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Chest pain that could be heart-related
- Symptoms persisting despite a proper course of treatment