Acid reflux & GERD

Reflux brings stomach contents upward. Simple changes can help, but some warning signs need urgent care.

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A cutaway stomach and oesophagus with tinted gastric contents near the lower oesophagus to represent reflux — Reflux: stomach contents move back into the oesophagus

THE BIG PICTURE

Why reflux happens

Stomach contents can move back into the food pipe and cause troublesome symptoms.

EsophagusStomach contents travel upwardStomach

This can cause heartburn or a sour taste.

Frequent troublesome reflux may be GERD. Cough or hoarseness alone does not prove reflux. New or concerning chest pain needs medical assessment.

ONE TOPIC, CLEAR NEXT STEPS

Where would you like to start?

UNDERSTAND

Understanding reflux

Stomach contents can move back into the food pipe and cause troublesome symptoms.

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EVERYDAY CARE

Daily care for reflux

For nighttime reflux, leave at least three hours between finishing a meal and lying down.

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FOLLOW-UP

Follow-up and warning signs

Chest pain, bleeding and a blocked food pipe can need emergency care.

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A QUICK CHECK

Is new chest pain always heartburn?

Choose an answer to see the explanation.

QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

Let's make it clearer.

Must I stop coffee completely?

Only if it reliably worsens your symptoms or your clinician advises it. Triggers differ, so focus on your own response.

Does everyone with reflux need an endoscopy?

No. Many people are assessed from symptoms initially. Warning signs, persistent symptoms and individual risks help determine whether testing is needed.

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Sources & content information

Source check: 6 September 2026. General patient education for clinician review. Illustrations are conceptual and are not diagnostic images.