Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion explained

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus. This can irritate the lining of the throat and chest. The most well-known symptom is heartburn, but not everyone with acid reflux experiences a burning sensation.

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is discomfort or pain in the upper part of the stomach, often after eating. It’s very common and usually not serious. For many people, symptoms can improve with lifestyle changes or treatment.

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest or throat, often after meals or when lying down. It’s a symptom of acid reflux. When heartburn or reflux symptoms happen regularly, it may be diagnosed as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

Symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion

Acid reflux and GORD can cause a range of symptoms, including a burning feeling in the chest, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, and discomfort behind the breastbone. Some people also experience a persistent cough, a hoarse voice, bad breath, bloating, or nausea.

Symptoms often feel worse after eating, when bending over, or when lying down.

Indigestion symptoms usually appear after food or drink and can include a feeling of fullness, bloating, upper stomach discomfort, burping, nausea, or bringing up bitter-tasting fluid.

If you have ongoing stomach pain, back pain, or symptoms lasting more than three weeks despite self-care or treatment, you should speak to your GP for advice.

What causes acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion?

These conditions share many common triggers.

Certain foods and drinks can relax the muscle that keeps stomach acid in place. Common triggers include coffee, chocolate, tomatoes, alcohol, fizzy drinks, and fatty or spicy foods.

Being overweight can increase pressure on the stomach, making reflux more likely. Smoking can weaken the valve at the base of the oesophagus. Pregnancy can also increase reflux due to hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach.

Other causes include stress and anxiety, overeating, eating large meals, a hiatus hernia, and infection with H. pylori bacteria.

Understanding your personal triggers can help you manage symptoms more effectively.

Managing acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion at home

Many people find relief with simple lifestyle changes.

Reducing tea, coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks can help. Eating smaller meals more often and avoiding heavy or late-night meals can ease pressure on the stomach.

Try not to eat within three to four hours of going to bed. Avoid rich, fatty, or spicy foods if they trigger symptoms. Wearing loose clothing around the waist can also help.

If symptoms bother you at night, raising the head of your bed by around 10 to 20 cm can reduce reflux. Extra pillows are less effective and can sometimes make symptoms worse.

If you smoke, stopping can significantly improve digestive symptoms. Your pharmacist or GP can offer support if you need help quitting.

When to seek treatment

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, acid reflux treatment may help manage symptoms. This can include medicines that reduce stomach acid or protect the stomach lining.

If symptoms are severe, persistent, or associated with difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing pain, you should seek urgent medical advice from your GP.