NHS information · Abdomen

Worried about heartburn and acid reflux?

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This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

What is heartburn and acid reflux?

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest, just behind the breastbone, caused by stomach acid travelling up the food pipe (acid reflux). It's very common and often triggered by certain foods, stress, being overweight, or pregnancy. Most cases improve with lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines; persistent reflux may need a GP review.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

  • Lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping your heartburn.
  • You have heartburn most days.
  • You also have other symptoms, like food getting stuck in your throat, frequently being sick, or losing weight for no reason.
  • A GP can provide alternative or stronger treatments and help rule out any more serious causes of your symptoms.
  • If at any time you feel your symptoms are getting worse, contact a GP, go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
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Self-care information from NHS

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  • Try to lose weight if you're overweight.
  • Try to find ways to relax.
  • Do not have food or drink that triggers your symptoms.
  • Do not eat within 3 or 4 hours before bed.
  • Do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Do not drink too much alcohol.

Common questions

What's the difference between heartburn and acid reflux?

Acid reflux is when stomach acid travels up into the food pipe. Heartburn is the burning sensation this causes in the chest. They're closely linked — heartburn is the main symptom of reflux.

How do I get rid of heartburn quickly?

Antacids from a pharmacy (like Gaviscon or Rennie) can ease heartburn within minutes by neutralising stomach acid. Longer-lasting relief comes from medicines called PPIs (like omeprazole). Avoiding trigger foods and not eating late at night also helps.

When should I worry about heartburn?

See a GP if heartburn is frequent (more than twice a week), not helped by pharmacy medicines, or comes with difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or vomiting. Persistent reflux can damage the food pipe over time.

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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.