Frequently asked questions
Short answers to what people most often ask about reflux. Each one links to the full guide.
What is the difference between heartburn and GERD?
Heartburn is a symptom: a burning feeling behind the breastbone. GERD is the condition, diagnosed when reflux causes troublesome symptoms regularly, often twice a week or more, or damages the oesophagus. Read more
Is GERD the same as GORD?
Yes. GERD is the American spelling (esophageal) and GORD the British spelling (oesophageal) of the same condition. Read more
Can GERD go away on its own?
Mild reflux often improves with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, not eating late and raising the head of the bed. Some people need medicine only for a while or only when symptoms flare; others need longer-term treatment. Read more
What is the best sleeping position for acid reflux?
On your left side, with the head of the bed raised by 15 to 20 cm. Research shows acid exposure at night is lowest on the left side and highest on the right. Read more
How long before bed should I stop eating?
At least two to three hours. Lying down with a full stomach makes reflux more likely. Read more
Which foods trigger acid reflux?
The most commonly reported triggers are fatty and fried food, chocolate, alcohol, fizzy drinks, citrus, tomato products, spicy food, mint, raw onion and, for some people, coffee. Triggers are individual, so track your own. Read more
When should I take omeprazole or another PPI?
30 to 60 minutes before a meal, usually breakfast. PPIs only work on acid pumps that are active, and food switches them on. Read more
Are PPIs safe long term?
PPIs are generally safe. Long-term use has been linked in observational studies to some problems, but most of these links are small and may not be caused by the medicine. If you have a clear reason to take one, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. Otherwise use the lowest dose that works and review it yearly with your doctor. Read more
Can reflux cause a cough or hoarse voice?
Yes. Reflux reaching the throat can cause chronic cough, hoarseness, throat clearing and a feeling of a lump in the throat, sometimes without heartburn. Other causes should also be checked. Read more
When is heartburn an emergency?
Call your emergency number for chest pain that feels heavy or tight, spreads to the arm, neck or jaw, or comes with breathlessness, sweating or feeling faint, because it may be your heart. See a doctor promptly for difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting blood or black stools. Read more
Is it normal for my baby to bring up milk?
Yes, it is very common in healthy babies and usually settles by their first birthday. See a doctor if your baby vomits green fluid, has projectile vomiting, blood, poor weight gain or seems unwell. Read more
Does drinking milk help heartburn?
Milk may soothe briefly, but it is not a treatment, and full-fat milk can make reflux worse. Lower-fat milk is usually better tolerated. Read more