How to relieve acid reflux

Acid reflux happens when stomach contents move upward into the oesophagus. You may notice burning behind the breastbone, a sour taste, regurgitation, throat irritation, cough or difficulty sleeping. A hiatus hernia can contribute, and excess weight may increase pressure on the stomach. Repeated symptoms can affect eating and rest, so a pattern is worth discussing with a clinician.

Try modest portions and eat slowly. Avoid lying down soon after meals; keep your upper body raised when resting at night. Notice whether rich, spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol or late meals trigger symptoms, then reduce the specific trigger rather than restricting everything. Avoid tight pressure around the abdomen. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antacid or acid-reducing medicine is suitable and how to use it safely.

Arrange a medical review for frequent reflux, symptoms that continue despite self-care, repeated vomiting, painful swallowing, food sticking, unexplained weight loss or ongoing cough. Seek urgent help for chest tightness with breathlessness, sweating, faintness or pain spreading to the arm, back or jaw, because heart problems can resemble reflux.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Acid Reflux, whether medicines or a hiatus hernia could be contributing, and which treatment is appropriate. Share when symptoms occur, what you eat before them, and whether cough or difficulty sleeping is involved.