Acid reflux happens when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. It may cause heartburn, a burning feeling behind the breastbone, or regurgitation of food or acidic fluid into the throat or mouth. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more persistent condition in which reflux causes repeated symptoms or complications.
Symptoms
- Heartburn, often after eating
- Regurgitation or a sour taste in the mouth
- Chest discomfort
- Nausea
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Chronic cough or hoarseness in some people
Not everyone with GERD has heartburn. Chest pain should never automatically be assumed to be reflux.
What can contribute to reflux?
GERD may develop when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes when it should not. Symptoms may be worsened by excess weight, smoking, pregnancy, large or late meals, alcohol and individual food or drink triggers. Some medicines can also contribute.
Self-care
- Avoid lying down for about 2 to 3 hours after eating.
- Consider smaller meals if large meals trigger symptoms.
- Identify foods and drinks that consistently make your own symptoms worse rather than following unnecessary broad restrictions.
- Weight loss may improve symptoms in people who have overweight or obesity.
- Stop smoking if you smoke.
- For nighttime symptoms, elevating the upper body during sleep may help.
Medicines and treatment
Antacids may help occasional mild symptoms. H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid and may be recommended for more frequent symptoms. PPIs are generally more effective than H2 blockers for healing the esophageal lining in GERD. Persistent symptoms should be medically assessed rather than repeatedly self-treated.
Most people are diagnosed from their symptoms and medical history. Endoscopy, reflux monitoring or other tests may be needed when symptoms are persistent, atypical or associated with warning signs. Surgery or other procedures are options for selected patients.
When to seek medical advice
Arrange an assessment for frequent symptoms, symptoms that do not improve with lifestyle changes or nonprescription medicines, difficulty or pain when swallowing, persistent vomiting, loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.
Urgent warning signs
Seek urgent medical care for vomiting blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or black, tarry stools. Chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, faintness, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back may be a heart emergency and requires immediate assessment.
Related topics
Sources
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This information is general and does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.