Acid Reflux (GERD)

What is GERD?

GERD occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter — the valve between the oesophagus and stomach — becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to flow back (reflux) into the oesophagus. The oesophagus lacks the acid-resistant lining of the stomach, so repeated exposure causes irritation, inflammation, and over time, potential damage.

Occasional reflux is normal, but when it occurs regularly — more than twice a week — it is classified as GERD and warrants treatment to prevent complications such as oesophagitis, Barrett's oesophagus, and in rare cases oesophageal cancer.

Symptoms

• Heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest, typically after eating or when lying down
• Acid regurgitation — a sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Feeling of a lump in the throat
• Chronic cough or hoarse voice — from acid irritating the throat
• Bloating and belching
• Worsening of asthma symptoms — acid reflux can trigger or worsen asthma

Causes & triggers

• Hiatus hernia — part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, weakening the sphincter
• Excess body weight — increases abdominal pressure and worsens reflux
• Pregnancy — hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure
• Trigger foods — fatty or fried foods, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, citrus, tomatoes, and spicy food
• Eating large meals or lying down shortly after eating
• Smoking — reduces lower oesophageal sphincter tone
• Certain medications — calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, and sedatives can worsen reflux

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if heartburn occurs more than twice a week, is not controlled by antacids, or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, or vomiting. These symptoms warrant further investigation to rule out more serious conditions.

Treatment options

• Lifestyle changes — elevating the head of the bed, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down within 2–3 hours of eating
• Antacids — for occasional symptom relief
• H2 blockers — reduce acid production and provide longer relief than antacids
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole — the most effective medical treatment, taken daily
• Weight loss — even modest reduction significantly improves reflux in overweight patients
• Surgical options — fundoplication for severe GERD not responding to medication

How eMedClinic can help

Our doctors provide GERD assessments, prescribe appropriate acid-suppressing medication, and provide personalised dietary and lifestyle advice. We can also arrange referrals for endoscopy where alarm symptoms are present or where long-term GERD requires monitoring for complications.