Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

Burning chest pain is a main symptom
Caused by stomach acid moving up the food pipe
Lifestyle changes often help reduce symptoms
Medicines can reduce stomach acid production

Overview

Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest, which happens when stomach acid travels up your food pipe. This is also known as acid reflux. If acid reflux occurs frequently, it may be diagnosed as Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD). Many factors can trigger heartburn, including certain foods, being overweight, or experiencing stress. Sometimes, there is no clear reason why it occurs. Symptoms are often worse after eating, when lying down, or bending over. Managing heartburn often involves simple changes to your daily habits. If these changes are not enough, various medicines are available to help reduce symptoms and improve your comfort.

Signs and Symptoms

Burning sensation in the middle of your chest
Unpleasant sour taste in your mouth
Persistent cough or hiccups
Hoarse voice
Bad breath
Bloating and feeling sick

Things That Increase the Risk

Certain foods and drinks (e.g., coffee, alcohol, spicy foods)
Being overweight
Smoking
Pregnancy
Stress and anxiety
Some medicines (e.g., ibuprofen)
Hiatus hernia (part of stomach moves into chest)
Stomach ulcer
Bacterial infection in the stomach

Diagnosis

Doctor's assessment of symptoms
Trial of lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines
Referral for gastroscopy (for severe or persistent cases)
Tests for stomach bacteria (e.g., H. pylori)

Treatment & Management

Antacids or alginates (over-the-counter medicines)
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole
H2 receptor antagonists like famotidine
Antibiotics (if bacterial infection is present)
Surgery (for severe cases not helped by medicine)

Prevention

Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Lose weight if you are overweight
Find ways to relax and manage stress
Avoid foods and drinks that trigger symptoms
Do not eat 3-4 hours before bed
Avoid tight clothing around your waist
Stop smoking
Limit alcohol intake
Elevate the head of your bed by 10-20cm

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Heartburn and Acid Reflux: