Acid Reflux (GERD)
A condition where stomach acid flows back into the food pipe, causing heartburn and a sour taste. When it happens often, it's called GERD.
Quick Summary
Heartburn (burning in the chest), sour or bitter taste, regurgitation, bloating, burping and cough or hoarseness.
Lifestyle changes, antacids and acid-reducing medicines such as pantoprazole or omeprazole.
Large or late meals, spicy and fatty food, obesity, smoking, alcohol, pregnancy and lying down after eating.
Overview
A ring of muscle at the bottom of the food pipe normally stops acid coming back up. In reflux, it relaxes at the wrong time or is weak.
Occasional heartburn is common. Frequent reflux can irritate and damage the food pipe, so long-lasting symptoms should be checked.
Symptoms
Heartburn
A burning feeling behind the breastbone, often after meals or at night.
Regurgitation
Sour fluid or food coming back into the mouth.
Cough and hoarseness
Especially at night or in the morning.
Warning signs
Difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools or weight loss need prompt care.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
The lower oesophageal sphincter lets stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus.
Key Risk Factors
- Eating habits Big meals, eating late and lying down soon after.
- Weight and pregnancy Pressure on the stomach.
- Smoking and alcohol Weaken the valve.
Management & Treatment
01. Lifestyle
Smaller meals, no food 2–3 hours before bed, raise the head of the bed, lose weight if needed.
02. Antacids
For quick, short-term relief.
03. Acid reducers
Proton pump inhibitors such as pantoprazole or omeprazole for frequent symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heartburn be a heart problem?
Do I need an endoscopy?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- GERD(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Heartburn and acid reflux(opens in a new tab) · NHS