Medically reviewed by: Hospital medical team Last reviewed: 2026
Understanding acid reflux and GERD
Acid reflux happens when stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. It can cause heartburn, a burning feeling behind the breastbone, or a sour taste in the mouth. Occasional reflux is common. When symptoms are troublesome, recurring or associated with complications, a clinician may diagnose gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, often shortened to GERD. Symptoms alone do not always establish the cause, and chest discomfort should never automatically be assumed to come from the stomach.
Identifying everyday triggers
Large meals, lying down soon after eating and meals close to bedtime can make reflux more likely. Some people notice symptoms after fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate or particular spicy foods, but triggers differ. A brief diary can help identify patterns without unnecessarily restricting many foods. Pregnancy, excess abdominal weight and some medicines may also contribute. Do not stop prescribed treatment on your own; ask whether a medicine could be worsening symptoms.
Practical changes that may help
Try smaller meals and leave around three hours between eating and lying down at night. If night-time symptoms are troublesome, raising the head of the bed or using a suitable wedge may help; extra pillows alone may not work well. Weight reduction can improve symptoms when appropriate, and stopping smoking supports overall health. Choose changes you can maintain rather than a strict universal reflux diet. If you are pregnant or have another health condition, discuss remedies with a clinician or pharmacist before using them.
Assessment and treatment
A clinician will review the pattern of symptoms, medicines and any warning signs. Short-term antacids or alginates may ease occasional symptoms, while acid-suppressing medicines such as proton pump inhibitors may be recommended for a defined course. The dose, timing and need for ongoing treatment should be reviewed rather than continued indefinitely without advice. Some people need an endoscopy or other tests, especially if symptoms persist or warning signs are present. Surgery is considered only in selected cases after appropriate assessment.
Symptoms that need prompt care
Seek medical review for difficulty or pain when swallowing, food sticking, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss or symptoms that remain frequent despite treatment. Vomiting blood or passing black tarry stool requires urgent care. New chest pain, especially with breathlessness, sweating, faintness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw, may be heart-related. Call 112 or seek emergency care rather than trying reflux medicine first. A change in long-standing symptoms deserves fresh attention.
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References
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor.