What should you know about frequent acid reflux?

Reflux may cause a burning feeling behind the breastbone, a sour taste, throat irritation, cough or discomfort after meals. It can be worse when lying down or bending. A hiatus hernia, weight-related pressure, large meals, some medicines and certain foods can contribute, but triggers vary. Ongoing symptoms can irritate the food pipe and affect sleep. Chest symptoms are not always reflux, so new or unexplained chest tightness should not be self-diagnosed.

Notice links with meal size, timing, alcohol, smoking, coffee and lying down soon after eating. Smaller meals, slower eating and leaving a gap before bed may reduce episodes. Raise the upper body during sleep if night symptoms occur, and avoid a trigger only when the pattern is clear. A pharmacist or GP can advise whether an antacid or acid-reducing treatment is appropriate and how long to use it. Read about [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) and [Difficulty Sleeping](/symptoms/difficulty-sleeping/).

Book a GP appointment if symptoms recur, require frequent self-treatment, disturb sleep, or cause trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting or unexplained weight loss. Seek emergency help for severe or sudden chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm, back or jaw. A [Chronic Cough](/conditions/chronic-cough/) can sometimes accompany reflux but still deserves assessment if it persists.

Could my symptoms be reflux or another cause? Do I need testing? Which treatment is suitable, and what swallowing or chest symptoms should prompt urgent help?