Guide to acid reflux symptoms, causes, treatment

Causes &
Symptoms

Acid reflux occurs just before bedtime, when you’re lying down, largely because it doesn't take as much force for stomach acid to travel up the chest and throat.

Stomach acid helps us break down food. But as we age, our bodies are less adapted to keeping the acid from travelling up the body. That’s why you’re more likely to experience it later in life, though it can be triggered in young people too.

Acid reflux may cause these symptoms:

A burning sensation in the chest or throat after eating.
A hot sour or salty tasting fluid in the back of your throat, accompanied by difficulty swallowing.
Feeling sick.
Difficulty or pain when swallowing.
Wheezing.
Burping.

In the majority of cases, acid reflux is a natural response to the stomach acid irritating an unprotected oesophagus.

Acid reflux may occur due to:

Fried and greasy foods
Eating too much
Eating too quickly
Fatty meats and dairy products
Alcohol, caffeinated drinks and spicy food, which can all cause the lower oesophageal sphincter to open.

Being overweight means there’s an increased pressure on your stomach, forcing open your oesophageal sphincter valve after eating.

But a large contributor? Stress, which can make symptoms worse. That’s because stress depletes our supply of prostaglandins, which protect our stomachs from acid. Try to get at least eight hours of restful sleep a night and cut out stressors from your life where possible.

Treatment

We know how disruptive acid reflux can be, which is why our range is designed to prevent discomfort. Our products create a protective barrier that prevents acid—and other aggressors like pepsin and bile—from moving up the oesophagus.

The viscous formulation at the heart of our range (Gaviscon Peppermint, Advance, and Double Action) is sodium alginate, as well as antacids.

Together, Gaviscon products offer soothing relief, allowing you to take your life off pause.

Dosage: Take 10–20ml (two to four 5ml) spoonfuls of Gaviscon Peppermint or Double Action, or 5–10ml spoonfuls of Gaviscon Advance, after meals and at bedtime

All information presented is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. If symptoms are severe or prolonged you should consult a doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label.