Heartburn, a painful burning sensation in your chest, is often the primary symptom of acid reflux, a condition where stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus. Occasional acid reflux is common, but when it becomes frequent, it may indicate a more chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Recognizing Acid Reflux Symptoms
Acid reflux manifests itself through several key symptoms. The most prevalent include:
- Heartburn: This is characterized by a burning pain that rises in the chest, often after eating or at night.
- Sour Taste: A distinct sour or bitter taste in the mouth, resulting from stomach acid reaching the oral cavity.
In addition to these hallmark symptoms, you might also experience:
- Persistent cough or hiccups
- Hoarseness in voice
- Bad breath
- Bloating and nausea
These symptoms tend to worsen after meals, when lying down, or bending over, due to increased pressure on the stomach and esophageal sphincter.
Common Causes of Acid Reflux
Many factors can contribute to acid reflux, and sometimes, it occurs without an identifiable trigger. However, certain elements are known to induce or exacerbate acid reflux:
- Dietary Factors: Certain foods and beverages like coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate, and high-fat or spicy meals can trigger symptoms.
- Obesity: Excess weight places additional pressure on the abdomen, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, which can allow stomach acid to escape.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, alongside increased abdominal pressure, can lead to heartburn.
- Stress and Anxiety: Psychological stress can disrupt digestive function and worsen acid reflux.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Increases in hormones like progesterone and estrogen can relax the esophageal sphincter.
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen, can irritate the stomach lining.
- Hiatus Hernia: This condition occurs when part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity, disrupting the normal barrier between the stomach and esophagus.
- Stomach Ulcers: Open sores in the stomach lining can contribute to acid reflux.
- Bacterial Infections: Certain bacterial infections in the stomach can also lead to reflux symptoms.
Alt Text: Illustration showing how raising the head of the bed can alleviate acid reflux symptoms by using blocks under the bed legs.
Self-Care Strategies for Acid Reflux Relief
Adopting simple lifestyle modifications can significantly alleviate or prevent acid reflux.
Recommended Actions:
- Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Reduces stomach distension and pressure on the esophageal sphincter.
- Weight Management: Losing weight, if overweight, can reduce abdominal pressure.
- Stress Reduction Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques can improve overall digestive health.
Actions to Avoid:
- Identify and Avoid Trigger Foods and Drinks: Keep a food diary to pinpoint and eliminate dietary triggers.
- Avoid Late-Night Eating: Allow 3 to 4 hours for digestion before lying down.
- Loose Clothing: Avoid tight garments around the waist that can compress the stomach.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation is crucial for reducing acid reflux.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can worsen reflux symptoms.
- Consult Doctor Before Stopping Medications: Never discontinue prescribed medications without professional medical advice.
Elevating the head of your bed by 10 to 20cm using blocks or books can be beneficial. This position utilizes gravity to help keep stomach acid down. Avoid using extra pillows, as this can increase pressure on your abdomen and exacerbate symptoms.
Over-the-Counter Solutions from a Pharmacist
For persistent heartburn, consult a pharmacist. They can recommend over-the-counter medications like antacids or alginates, which neutralize stomach acid or create a protective barrier in the esophagus. These are most effective when taken with or shortly after meals. However, they provide temporary relief and are not intended for long-term, regular use. Pregnant individuals should seek pharmacist advice for safe medication options.
Alt Text: Image depicting a person experiencing heartburn, clutching their chest in discomfort, highlighting the common symptom of acid reflux.
When to Seek Medical Advice from a Doctor
Consult a General Practitioner (GP) if:
- Lifestyle changes and pharmacy remedies fail to provide relief.
- Heartburn occurs most days.
- Additional symptoms are present, such as food getting stuck, frequent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss.
A GP can offer stronger treatments and investigate potential underlying causes. If your symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP, use the NHS 111 online service, or call 111 for guidance.
Medical Treatments for Acid Reflux
For acid reflux, a GP might prescribe Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). These medications reduce stomach acid production and are typically prescribed for 4 to 8 weeks. If symptoms recur after completing the medication course, long-term prescriptions may be necessary.
Important Note:
If PPIs are ineffective, your doctor may suggest H2 receptor antagonists like famotidine as an alternative.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Acid Reflux
For severe cases unresponsive to medication, or with complicated symptoms, a GP may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation, including:
- Diagnostic Tests: Such as gastroscopy to visualize the esophagus and stomach.
- Bacterial Infection Testing: To detect and treat bacteria associated with heartburn using antibiotics and PPIs.
- Surgical Options: Surgery on the stomach or esophagus to prevent acid reflux in extreme cases.
Page last reviewed: 20 November 2023
Next review due: 20 November 2026
