Dyspepsia and acid reflux: what to know

Indigestion may include fullness, belching, nausea or discomfort high in the abdomen. Acid reflux adds a burning feeling behind the breastbone or a sour taste when stomach contents move upwards. Symptoms can be worse after a large meal, when bending or when lying down. A hiatus hernia can contribute, and excess weight can increase pressure around the stomach. Reflux may also irritate the throat and contribute to a cough; a symptom alone does not establish the cause.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, and notice which foods or drinks trigger symptoms. Avoid lying down soon after eating and raise the upper part of the bed if night-time reflux is troublesome. Avoid tight clothing around the waist and discuss weight-related support if relevant. A pharmacist or clinician can advise about an antacid or acid-reducing treatment, including how long to use it and whether it fits your other medicines.

Get urgent help for chest pressure with breathlessness, sweating, faintness, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. Arrange medical review for trouble swallowing, food sticking, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms that persist despite appropriate self-care. Chest tightness should not automatically be attributed to reflux.

Ask whether your pattern fits reflux, whether testing is needed, which treatment suits your medicines, and what warning symptoms should prompt an earlier appointment.