A guide to acid reflux

Acid reflux, also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus—the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. This backward flow can irritate the lining of the oesophagus, causing discomfort. While occasional reflux is common and usually harmless, frequent episodes may lead to more significant health issues if left untreated.

What are the common symptoms?

The hallmark symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often occurs after eating or at night. Other symptoms may include regurgitation, where food or sour liquid comes back up into the throat or mouth, and a persistent sore throat. Some individuals may also experience difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, or a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Symptoms can vary in severity and may mimic other conditions, making it important to seek medical advice if they persist.

What causes acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS)—a ring of muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus—does not close properly. This allows stomach acid to escape into the oesophagus. Contributing factors include eating large meals, lying down immediately after eating, and consuming trigger foods such as spicy or fatty meals, caffeine, and alcohol.

Other risk factors include being overweight, smoking, or having certain medical conditions such as a hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity.

How is acid reflux diagnosed?

If you suspect you have acid reflux, a doctor may begin with a discussion of your symptoms and medical history. In some cases, further tests may be recommended. These could include an endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the oesophagus to check for inflammation, or a pH test to measure acid levels in the oesophagus.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment for acid reflux often begins with lifestyle changes. These include avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down within two to three hours of eating. Losing excess weight and stopping smoking can also help reduce symptoms.

If these adjustments are insufficient, over-the-counter antacids or medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production. In severe cases, surgical options, such as fundoplication, may be considered.

When should you seek medical advice?

While occasional heartburn can be managed at home, frequent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Untreated acid reflux can lead to complications such as oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus), ulcers, or Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that increases the risk of oesophageal cancer. Speak with a healthcare provider if your symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life.