What should you know about having acid reflux while pregnant?

Symptoms may include cough, throat irritation or difficulty sleeping, not only heartburn. A hiatus hernia or other digestive problem can also contribute. Chest tightness or abdominal pain has several possible causes, so do not assume every painful symptom is reflux.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, remain upright after eating, and avoid lying down soon after food. Notice whether rich, spicy or acidic foods trigger symptoms, then limit personal triggers rather than restricting nutrition broadly. Elevating the upper body for sleep may help. Check every antacid, alginate or other medicine with your maternity clinician or pharmacist before taking it.

Contact your maternity team if symptoms are frequent, severe, stop you eating or sleeping, or do not improve with simple changes. Seek urgent care for crushing or persistent chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing.

Ask which medicines and doses are suitable at your stage of pregnancy, whether another condition needs checking, and what symptoms should prompt same-day assessment.