Acid reflux
Stomach acid backs up in the oesphagus irritating the tissue in the throat
If you're experiencing a burning sensation down your throat, it could be down to acid reflux — we can help
What is acid reflux?
Reflux happens when acid in your stomach rises up your oesophagus. This can lead to a burning sensation behind your breast bone called acid indigestion or heartburn.
Acid reflux is normally brought on (and made worse) by consuming certain foods and fluids, like coffee, alcohol, chocolate and spicy and fatty foods. It can also be caused by being overweight, pregnancy, smoking and stress.
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of acid reflux? icon plus
Some common symptoms of acid reflux include:
- heartburn (a burning sensation behind your breast bone)
- regurgitation (a feeling of liquid moving up to your mouth)
- an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- a hoarse voice
- coughing
- bloating
If your acid reflux isn't going away, it may be a sign of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The symptoms of GORD tend to be more frequent and severe than normal acid reflux.
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How is reflux diagnosed? icon plus
Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. They'll normally be able to make a diagnosis based on this discussion. If you've been experiencing persistent acid reflux, they may also carry out other tests at a later date to rule out GORD and other conditions.
These tests might include:- a gastroscopy to look into your throat and/or stomach using a telescope and camera
- a barium swallow test to spot issues in your throat and/or stomach
- a 24-hour tube test to measure the amount of acidity in your stomach
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Potential treatment options for acid reflux icon plus
Your GP or consultant will discuss your treatment options with you.
Depending on the nature of your symptoms and any test results, these could range from over-the-counter medicines to stronger drugs.
Quite often, your symptoms will clear up on their own over time by making simple dietary or lifestyle changes.
Our gastroenterologists
Across our HCA UK network our gastroenterologists can investigate and diagnostic conditions affecting the stomach and gastric system. Our consultants are leading specialists in the field of gastroenterology, and will guide you throughout any tests or scans.
Our locations
From complex stomach surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital Gastroenterology Unit
21 Wellington Road
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestion
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344