GERD (Acid Reflux)

GERD, or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which stomach contents and acid repeatedly travel back up into the oesophagus. A muscular ring at the lower end of the oesophagus normally keeps food and acid in the stomach. When this valve weakens or relaxes at the wrong time, acid can rise and irritate the oesophageal lining, producing ongoing symptoms.

Acid reflux is very common, and many adults experience occasional heartburn. GERD describes reflux that occurs frequently or causes troublesome symptoms. It can affect people of any age, including children, but becomes more common with rising age, during pregnancy, and in people who are overweight. Lifestyle factors often influence how often symptoms appear.

The most familiar symptom is heartburn, a burning feeling in the chest that often comes after eating or when lying down. Many people also notice a sour or bitter taste, food or liquid coming back up, a persistent cough, hoarseness, or a sensation of a lump in the throat. Symptoms may worsen at night or after large meals.

GERD develops when the lower oesophageal valve does not close tightly, allowing acid to escape upward. A hiatus hernia, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and certain foods or drinks can contribute. Fatty or spicy meals, caffeine, alcohol, and eating late can trigger symptoms. Some medicines may also relax the valve and make reflux more likely.

Doctors often diagnose GERD from your description of symptoms, especially when heartburn is frequent and typical. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by warning signs, further tests may be advised. These can include endoscopy, where a thin camera examines the oesophagus, or specialised studies that measure acid levels and pressure to confirm reflux and rule out other conditions.

Treatment usually starts with lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, not lying down soon after eating, and reaching a healthy weight. Medicines that reduce or neutralise stomach acid are commonly used to ease symptoms and protect the oesophagus. When reflux is severe or does not respond to other care, surgical options to strengthen the valve may be considered.

While reflux cannot always be avoided, several habits can reduce how often it happens. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating smaller and earlier meals, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and stopping smoking all help. Raising the head of the bed and avoiding foods that personally trigger symptoms can also reduce night-time reflux and protect the oesophageal lining over time.