Acid Reflux Information
Acid reflux is a common condition where acid from the stomach travels upwards into the food pipe or oesophagus and causes a burning sensation from the throat to the centre of the chest, also known as heartburn. Acid reflux is caused by a weakness in the lower oesophageal sphincter, a muscle which is supposed to stop the movement of acids back up the oesophagus. This results in acid from the stomach travelling up the oesophagus, causing a burning feeling in the chest.
Causes of Acid Reflux
The stomach contains hydrochloric acid which helps to break down food. Acid reflux is caused by acid from the stomach travelling up into the oesophagus and even into the mouth. The acid irritates the lining of the oesophagus, causing it to become inflamed and painful. At the bottom of the oesophagus, there is a valve called the lower oesophageal sphincter, which relaxes to allow food and water to pass into the stomach. If the sphincter is weak or relaxes too much, then stomach acid can travel back into the oesophagus.
It is very common to suffer from occasional acid reflux or heartburn without knowing the cause. There are some triggers that can cause acid reflux or make it worse. These include:
- Certain foods or drinks
- Eating large meals
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- Stress
- Low levels of exercise
- Pregnancy
- A hiatus hernia- a hole in the diaphragm which allows part of the stomach to move into the chest
- Some medications, such as drugs for asthma, antihistamines, and anti-inflammatory painkillers (such as ibuprofen).
If acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, then you may have gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a more severe form of acid reflux.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can have many symptoms, but the 7 most common ones are:
- Heartburn, which is an uncomfortable burning sensation or pain in the chest that can occur after eating food and last for several hours. It can happen occasionally or can be persistent if you have gastro-oesophagus reflux disease.
- A sour or bitter taste in taste in the mouth – caused by stomach acid reaching the mouth.
- Dry cough
- Wheezing
- Problems with your voice, such as hoarseness
- Bad breath
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Acid reflux symptoms can happen or worsen after eating, bending or lying down. Diagnosis of acid reflux is usually made based on the symptoms and physical examination. However, heartburn can seem similar to a heart attack, so it’s important to rule that out. If symptoms are persistent or severe, then further tests may be carried out, such as an endoscopy.
At Click2Pharmacy, we offer various acid reflux treatments that can be delivered straight to your door
Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux
There are certain foods and drinks that have been associated with acid reflux. It has been suggested that tobacco, chocolate, alcohol and coffee may cause relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter and should be avoided. Other foods and habits that are also linked to acid reflux include:
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- High intake of salt
- Low dietary fibre
- Having carbonated (fizzy) drinks and acidic juices
- Eating large meals
- Lying down within 3 hours of eating a meal
Acid Reflux in Pregnancy
Acid reflux in pregnancy is quite common and can be very irritating and uncomfortable. In pregnancy, hormonal changes cause the lower oesophageal muscle to relax, which means the acids in the stomach may travel up. Secondly, as the baby grows in the uterus, it puts pressure on the stomach, which causes acid and food to push back up.
In the first trimester, you may experience heartburn or acid reflux due to the oesophageal muscles moving food more slowly into your stomach. Your stomach may also take longer to empty. As the pregnancy progresses to the third trimester, the size of the baby can push against the stomach and affect its normal position.
Acid Reflux Medication and Treatments
There are various treatments available which can successfully manage your acid reflux. Acid reflex suppressants, such as Gaviscon are great for occasional reflux. If you have ongoing issues, proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole and Lansoprazole can provide long-term relief.
Acid Reflux Suppressants
These medications are known as acid suppressants.
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- Gaviscon Liquid & Tablets
- Peptac Liquid
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Acid Reflux Tablets and Capsules
For more persistent and severe acid reflux, oral capsules and tablets can be used known as Proton Pump Inhibitors:
Below is a table of some popular acid reflux treatments available at Click2Pharmacy. Acne prescription medication can be purchased through the online clinic.
Medication Name | Esomeprazole | Omeprazole | Lansoprazole | Pantoprazole | Gaviscon |
Brands | Losec Mups | Zoton Fast tabs | |||
Common side effects |
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Dosages available | 20mg / 40mg | 10mg, 20mg, 40mg | |||
When or how should it be used | 1 in the morning before food | 1 in the morning before food | 1 in the morning before food | 1 in the morning before food | 5-10mls four times a day after food and before bed |
Key Benefit | |||||
Type of medication | Tablets / Capsules | Capsules | Capsules orodispersible |
Capsules | Liquid Chewable tablets |
Do you need a prescription? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |