Gastric acid reflux

The lower oesophageal valve normally helps keep stomach contents down. Reflux can cause a burning feeling behind the breastbone, a sour taste, burping, throat irritation, or symptoms after meals and when lying down. Some people mainly have cough or hoarseness rather than classic burning. A hiatus hernia can contribute, and body weight, meal size, alcohol, smoking, or certain foods may influence symptoms. Chest tightness or abdominal pain has other possible causes and should not automatically be attributed to reflux.

Try smaller meals, avoid lying down soon after eating, and identify personal triggers rather than removing many foods at once. Raising the head end of the bed may help night symptoms; extra pillows alone can bend the body and may be less useful. Avoid smoking and discuss weight management if relevant. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable medicines if lifestyle measures do not control symptoms.

Arrange a review if symptoms are frequent, worsening, affecting sleep, or causing trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. Seek urgent care for severe chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, faintness, vomiting blood, or black stools. These symptoms can signal problems other than reflux and need prompt assessment.

Do my symptoms fit acid reflux or another condition? Could a hiatus hernia or medicine be contributing? Which changes should I try first, and how should I use treatment if symptoms return?