Heartburn after drinking alcohol: what to know

Alcohol can make stomach contents move back towards the food pipe, causing a burning feeling behind the breastbone, a sour taste, or fluid coming up. Larger meals, fizzy mixers, lying down soon after drinking, and smoking can add to the problem. Repeated episodes may fit with acid reflux; alcohol-related irritation can also occur with gastritis. A hiatus hernia, obesity, or a peptic ulcer may be relevant in some people, but heartburn alone does not identify one cause.

Stop drinking alcohol while symptoms settle and sip water rather than taking more alcohol or fizzy drinks. Stay upright, loosen tight clothing around the abdomen, and avoid lying flat soon after eating or drinking. Notice which drinks, mixers, meal sizes, and timings bring symptoms on. A pharmacist or clinician can explain whether an acid reflux medication is suitable, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant, or have other health conditions.

Get urgent help for chest pressure, severe or spreading pain, breathlessness, fainting, sweating, vomiting blood, or black stools. Arrange medical care if swallowing becomes difficult or painful, food seems to stick, vomiting persists, symptoms repeatedly disturb sleep, or heartburn keeps returning despite avoiding alcohol. Chest discomfort should not be assumed to be reflux.

Ask whether your pattern suggests reflux, gastritis, or another condition; which medicines are safe with your regular treatments; and whether frequent symptoms need an examination or further testing.