Acid Reflux & Heartburn
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that affects quality of life and can lead to complications if untreated. Expert management focuses on symptom relief and preventing long-term complications.
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Understanding Acid Reflux & Heartburn
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the oesophagus, causing symptoms and potentially leading to complications over time.
Common Symptoms
Risk Factors
Understanding the risk factors for heartburn can help you make lifestyle changes to reduce your symptoms and prevent complications.
Obesity
Excess weight increases abdominal pressure, pushing stomach contents into the oesophagus.
Hiatal Hernia
Part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, weakening the lower oesophageal sphincter.
Smoking
Tobacco relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter and reduces saliva production.
Large or Late Meals
Eating large portions or late at night increases pressure on the stomach and reflux risk.
Trigger Foods
Fatty, fried, spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, and chocolate can trigger symptoms.
Alcohol & Caffeine
Both relax the lower oesophageal sphincter and increase acid production.
Potential Complications
Untreated acid reflux can lead to serious complications affecting the oesophagus. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these conditions.
Oesophagitis
Inflammation of the oesophagus causing pain, bleeding, and ulceration from repeated acid exposure.
Oesophageal Stricture
Narrowing of the oesophagus due to scar tissue formation, causing difficulty swallowing.
Barrett's Oesophagus
Pre-cancerous changes in the oesophageal lining requiring regular surveillance endoscopy.
Oesophageal Cancer
Long-standing Barrett's oesophagus increases the risk of developing adenocarcinoma.
Investigations for Heartburn
Accurate diagnosis of heartburn often requires specialised tests to assess the extent of acid reflux and any damage to the oesophagus.
OGD (Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy)
Also known as gastroscopy, this procedure uses a thin, flexible camera (endoscope) to directly visualise the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- Detects oesophagitis (inflammation) and erosions
- Identifies Barrett's oesophagus (pre-cancerous changes)
- Allows biopsies for further analysis
- Rules out other conditions like ulcers or cancer
Bravo Capsule pH Monitoring
A wireless, catheter-free pH monitoring system that measures acid exposure in the oesophagus over 48-96 hours for accurate heartburn diagnosis.
- Small capsule attached to the oesophageal wall
- Transmits pH data wirelessly to a recorder
- More comfortable than traditional catheter-based tests
- Gold standard for quantifying acid reflux episodes
Heartburn Treatment
Treatment for heartburn is tailored to the severity of symptoms and presence of complications:
Lifestyle Modifications
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid trigger foods and late meals
- Elevate the head of your bed
- Stop smoking
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
Medical Treatment
- Antacids for occasional symptoms
- H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine)
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Prokinetic agents when needed
- Endoscopic or surgical options for severe cases
Get Relief from Heartburn
If you're experiencing persistent reflux symptoms, schedule a consultation for proper evaluation and personalised treatment options.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.