Ways to help acid reflux

Acid reflux happens when stomach contents move upwards into the oesophagus, causing burning behind the breastbone, a sour taste or irritation in the throat. A hiatus hernia can contribute by changing the position of the stomach and the valve at its entrance. Repeated reflux may also be linked with cough or difficulty sleeping.

Notice which foods, drinks or portion sizes bring symptoms on, then reduce those triggers rather than removing a long list of foods without a reason. Choose modest portions, eat slowly, and avoid lying down soon after a meal. Raising the upper part of the bed can help night-time symptoms; extra pillows alone may bend the body and be less useful. Avoid smoking, and ask a pharmacist or doctor which antacid or acid-reducing medicine fits your other medicines and health conditions. Weight changes may reduce pressure on the stomach for people living with obesity, but any plan should be gradual and supported.

Arrange a medical review if reflux is frequent, keeps returning despite self-care, disrupts sleep, or makes swallowing difficult. Seek urgent help for chest tightness with breathlessness, sweating, faintness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw, because heart problems can feel similar. Get prompt care for vomiting blood, black stools, persistent vomiting or unexplained weight loss.

Ask whether your symptoms fit acid reflux, whether a hiatus hernia or another condition could be involved, and how long to try treatment. Bring a list of medicines and describe meal timing, night symptoms, cough and any swallowing change.