Acid Reflux (GERD)
Persistent heartburn is not normal — it's treatable.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is when stomach acid chronically refluxes into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and — if untreated — damage. Most cases respond to lifestyle change and acid suppression.
Causes & risk factors
- Weak lower oesophageal sphincter
- Hiatal hernia
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking and alcohol
- Certain foods (spicy, fatty, citrus, coffee)
Symptoms
- Burning behind the breastbone, worse after meals or lying down
- Sour taste or regurgitation
- Chronic cough, especially at night
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
How it's diagnosed
- Clinical in typical cases
- Trial of PPI therapy
- Endoscopy for alarm symptoms or >50 with new onset
- pH monitoring in refractory cases
Evidence-based treatment
- Weight loss if overweight
- Smaller, earlier dinners; avoid lying down for 3 hours after
- Elevate head of bed by 6 inches
- H2 blockers or PPIs
- Fundoplication for severe, drug-resistant cases
Who treats this?
Related symptoms
Acid Reflux (GERD) — FAQ
Are PPIs safe long-term?
Short- to medium-term use is well-studied and safe. Long-term use has small associations with bone loss, B12 deficiency, and kidney issues — worth reviewing annually whether the dose is still needed.
Other conditions
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)Type 2 DiabetesMigraineHypothyroidismAsthmaDepressionEczema (Atopic Dermatitis)PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)Anxiety DisordersUrinary Tract Infection (UTI)ArthritisHigh Cholesterol (Dyslipidaemia)Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)Anaemia (Iron Deficiency)Back Pain (Chronic)Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
This page is general information, not medical advice for any specific person. For diagnosis and treatment, book a consultation.