What causes acid reflux?

The muscle ring at the lower end of the food pipe normally limits backflow. Reflux becomes more likely when the ring relaxes at the wrong time, the stomach is under increased pressure, or a Hiatus Hernia changes the position of the stomach and valve. Obesity can increase pressure around the abdomen and contribute to symptoms. Large meals, lying down soon after eating, alcohol, smoking, and personal food triggers may worsen reflux, although triggers differ between people. Heartburn, a sour taste, burping, cough, or hoarseness can occur.

Try smaller meals, remain upright after eating, and identify foods or drinks that reliably bring on symptoms. Avoid eating close to bedtime and consider raising the head end of the bed if night symptoms are frequent. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on an appropriate antacid or acid-suppressing medicine. Seek review if symptoms recur often, disrupt sleep, or do not settle with sensible measures.

Get urgent help for chest pain with sweating, breathlessness, nausea, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw, because this may not be reflux. Arrange prompt assessment for difficulty or pain when swallowing, food sticking, vomiting blood, black stools, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or persistent symptoms.

Ask whether your symptoms fit reflux, whether a Hiatus Hernia or another condition could be involved, how long to try treatment, and which medicines may worsen symptoms. Bring a list of triggers, timing, and any swallowing or chest symptoms.