Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents travel back up into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth. It is a common digestive problem that affects many adults and can range from occasional discomfort to a more persistent condition that may require medical assessment.
When to See a Doctor
Urgent Medical Advice
Relevant Diagnostic Tests
Recognising acid reflux symptoms can help you understand whether you are experiencing occasional digestive discomfort or symptoms that may benefit from further medical assessment. Symptoms often become worse after large meals, when lying flat or when bending over.
Burning Sensation in the Chest
A distinct burning feeling behind the breastbone that may move upwards towards the throat. This is commonly known as heartburn and is one of the most recognisable acid reflux symptoms.
Chest Discomfort or Pressure
Some people experience pressure, tightness or discomfort in the chest that can feel similar to heart-related pain. Any sudden, severe or unexplained chest pain should always be assessed urgently.
Sour Taste in the Mouth
Acid or stomach contents travelling upwards can leave a bitter, acidic or metallic taste in the mouth, particularly in the morning or after meals.
Regurgitation
A sensation of food, liquid or stomach acid rising back into the throat or mouth without vomiting.
Throat Irritation
A persistent tickle in the throat, frequent throat clearing, hoarseness or the sensation of a lump in the throat.
Accompanying Symptoms
Acid reflux often occurs alongside other upper digestive symptoms, including:
Acid reflux happens when the valve between the oesophagus and stomach does not close properly. This allows stomach acid and digestive juices to move upwards into the oesophagus, leading to irritation and symptoms developing.
Lifestyle & Dietary Acid Reflux Triggers
Many people notice that certain foods, drinks or lifestyle factors trigger their symptoms.
Foods Associated with Acid Reflux
Drinks That Can be a trigger
Lifestyle Factors that can contribute
Stress and Anxiety
Although stress does not directly cause reflux, it can increase sensitivity within the digestive system and make symptoms feel worse.
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
GORD is the long-term condition associated with frequent acid reflux. Symptoms usually occur more than twice a week and may have a significant impact on daily life.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upwards through the diaphragm, making reflux more likely.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS and reflux symptoms can sometimes occur together, particularly in people who experience bloating and altered digestive motility.
Gastritis and Stomach Ulcers
Inflammation or irritation within the stomach can contribute to upper digestive symptoms and acid reflux.
Oesophagitis
Long-term exposure to stomach acid can inflame the lining of the oesophagus, leading to discomfort and swallowing difficulties.
Barrett’s Oesophagus
A condition associated with long-standing acid reflux in which the lining of the oesophagus changes over time. Although uncommon, some patients may require regular monitoring.
Gallstones
Gallbladder problems can cause symptoms that mimic reflux or make upper digestive symptoms worse.
Oesophageal Cancer
Very occasionally, persistent reflux symptoms may occur alongside more serious conditions. Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss or worsening symptoms should always be assessed promptly.
Occasional heartburn is common and often improves with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause and help prevent complications.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
Call 999 or Attend A&E Immediately If:
Non-Emergency Symptoms
If reflux symptoms persist for more than two weeks, become increasingly frequent or interfere with daily life, consider contacting NHS 111 or arranging an assessment with a gastroenterology specialist.
Diagnosing the Cause of Acid Reflux
Understanding the cause of your symptoms helps ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and advice.
Initial Clinical Consultation
Your consultant gastroenterologist will discuss:
A physical examination may also be performed.
Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy)
A thin, flexible camera is used to examine the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small bowel.
This can help identify:
24-Hour Oesophageal pH and Impedance Monitoring
Measures how often acid and non-acid reflux enters the oesophagus throughout the day.
Oesophageal Manometry
Assesses how effectively the muscles of the oesophagus and lower oesophageal sphincter are working.
Blood and Stool Tests
May help investigate:
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, reduce irritation within the oesophagus and help prevent symptoms from returning.
Self-Care & Lifestyle Remedies
Changes to your diet and lifestyle can also help relieve symptoms.
Dietary Changes
Sleep Adjustments
Raising the head of the bed by 10 to 15 cm may help reduce night-time reflux symptoms.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pressure on the stomach and lower the risk of reflux.
Antacids and Alginates
Can provide rapid relief by neutralising acid or creating a protective barrier.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Medicines such as omeprazole and lansoprazole reduce stomach acid production and allow irritated tissues to heal.
H2-Receptor Antagonists
Alternative acid-reducing medications that may be suitable for some patients.
Surgical & Specialist Interventions
For severe GORD or reflux associated with a large hiatal hernia, specialist procedures may be considered.
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication
A keyhole surgical procedure designed to strengthen the barrier between the stomach and oesophagus.
LINX Reflux Management System
A minimally invasive procedure using a flexible ring of magnetic beads to help prevent reflux while allowing normal swallowing.
Living with ongoing acid reflux can affect sleep, eating habits and overall quality of life. At Clarity, our experienced gastroenterology team provides rapid access to specialist assessment, advanced diagnostics and personalised treatment plans.
✅ Fast access to experienced consultant gastroenterologists
✅ Modern endoscopy and diagnostic facilities
✅ Comprehensive digestive investigations on-site
✅ Personalised treatment plans tailored to your symptoms
✅ Comfortable private environment with minimal waiting times
As the first step in your private digestive health journey, Clarity Consult is an entirely FREE consultation.
This is designed to be a clear, consultant-led private pathway for patients experiencing digestive symptoms, with fast access, transparent costs and flexible appointments.
Keeping a food and symptom diary, bringing a list of medications and noting any treatments you have already tried can help your specialist gain a clearer understanding of your symptoms.
Standing upright, drinking water, avoiding heavy meals and using over-the-counter alginates or antacids may provide temporary relief.
Stress does not directly cause acid reflux, but it can increase sensitivity within the digestive system and make symptoms feel more noticeable. Many people find that symptoms worsen during periods of stress, anxiety or poor sleep.
A sour taste in the mouth is often caused by reflux occurring overnight while lying flat, allowing stomach contents to travel into the oesophagus and throat.
Yes. GERD chest pain can sometimes feel similar to heart-related pain. Because chest pain can have many causes, any sudden, severe or unexplained chest pain should always be assessed urgently.
Acid reflux is the physical process of stomach acid moving up into the oesophagus. Heartburn is the burning sensation caused by that reflux. GORD (Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease) is the chronic condition diagnosed when reflux occurs frequently or causes complications.
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