ACID REFLUX | HEARTBURN PROGRAM

Acid reflux is a common condition causing a burning sensation or irritation known as heartburn. Understanding acid reflux, why it occurs, and how to prevent and manage it, is key to a good health outcome. 

You can consult a doctor about Acid reflux online with Simple Online Doctors, an Australian-registered online doctor and pharmacy service. You may complete an online assessment and brief consultation with Australian-registered doctors who will evaluate your suitability.

Acid Reflux occurs when stomach acid travels up into the oesophagus instead of staying in the stomach where it belongs. In the body, there is a muscle that opens and closes the space between the stomach and oesophagus, called the oesophageal sphincter. When this muscle does not function effectively, stomach acid can escape the stomach up into the oesophagus. This is the major reason for symptoms of acid reflux.

Reflux can be occasional, but if it's persistent, it may be diagnosed as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD). It is common and can be managed effectively.

The most common symptom is a burning sensation in the chest, sometimes moving up towards the throat. Some people experience a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, whilst others experience nausea, bad breath, and hoarseness.

 It’s important not to ignore severe or sudden symptoms, as chest discomfort can sometimes feel similar to heart-related pain and should be assessed promptly.

Acid reflux happens when the sphincter does not function properly, allowing acid to flow upward. 

Lifestyle

• Dietary choices are one of the most common triggers for heartburn. These include:
• Drinks containing caffeine
• Large meals overfilling the stomach
• Alcohol
• Fatty foods
• Spicy foods
• Carbonated drinks (soft drinks)
• Highly acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes.

Other lifestyle factors that can cause reflux include smoking, stress, and being overweight or obese.

Medical Conditions

Conditions that delay gastric emptying or the condition known as hiatus hernia, where the stomach pushes up into the chest, are well-known causes of GORD symptoms.

Medications

Regularly taking medicines that affect the stomach and acidity such as anti-inflammatory drugs and effervescent tablets can result in GORD.

Pregnancy GORD

During the first trimester, the stomach takes longer to empty in order to absorb more nutrients which can result in pregnancy-related GORD. Also as the baby grows in the third trimester, it can push up the stomach, also resulting in acid reflux.

Small, practical changes can make improvements in the symptoms

• Eat slightly smaller meals
• Avoid eating late at night 
• Reduce common triggers like caffeine or alcohol

Simple habits like staying upright after meals, managing stress, and recognising the triggers can go a long way. Once you gain an understanding of your triggers and patterns, flare-ups become easier to prevent.

There is a range of treatment options available depending on the severity and frequency of your symptoms. While lifestyle changes are often the first step, some people may require consultation with a doctor to reduce stomach acid or protect the oesophagus.

A doctor can assess your symptoms and determine the most suitable treatment plan. Early management can help reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and significantly improve quality of life

If you're experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, taking the first step to understand what may be contributing can be a useful starting point.

Speaking with a doctor allows for a personalised assessment and guidance to help identify possible dietary, lifestyle, or medical factors that may be affecting your digestion and comfort.

Early discussion can help you better understand your symptoms and explore appropriate management approaches suited to your individual circumstances.

Connect with a clinical team for a professional assessment and, where appropriate, begin building a tailored plan to help manage acid reflux and support your digestive health and overall wellbeing.