Acid reflux is when stomach acid comes back up into your oesophagus (food pipe). When it happens regularly and causes symptoms or damage, it is called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). It is very common.
Symptoms
- heartburn, a burning feeling in the middle of the chest
- an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth
- bringing up food or liquid
- a cough or hiccups that keep coming back
- a hoarse voice
- bad breath
- feeling bloated or sick
Symptoms are often worse after eating, when lying down or bending over.
Common causes
- certain food and drink, such as coffee, alcohol, spicy or fatty foods
- being overweight
- smoking
- pregnancy
- stress and anxiety
- some medicines, such as ibuprofen
- a hiatus hernia, where part of the stomach moves up into the chest
Read about treatment for acid reflux.
Common questions
Is heartburn anything to do with the heart?
No. It is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid. But chest pain can be a sign of a heart problem, so call 999 if you have chest pain that spreads to your arms, jaw or back, or you feel sweaty or breathless.
Can I take reflux medicine long term?
Many people do, but your GP should review it regularly and try the lowest dose that works. Some people can take it only when needed.
Sources we used
- NHS, Heartburn and acid reflux
- NICE guideline CG184, Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults
- Guts UK, Acid reflux
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