Acid Reflux (GERD): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as heartburn, acid reflux.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back up the food pipe, causing heartburn — a burning feeling rising behind the breastbone, often after meals or when lying down. Occasional heartburn is normal; frequent reflux deserves treatment to protect the food pipe.
Symptoms
Burning sensation rising from the stomach to the chest
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Food or acid coming back up
Worse after large, spicy or oily meals
Worse when lying down or bending
Chronic cough, hoarseness or throat clearing
Causes & risk factors
Weakness of the valve between stomach and food pipe
Large or late-night meals, fried and spicy food
Obesity and pregnancy increasing abdominal pressure
Smoking, alcohol and carbonated drinks
Treatment & self-care
Smaller meals, eating at least three hours before bed, raising the head of the bed and losing excess weight relieve most cases. Doctors may prescribe acid-reducing tablets for a defined period and review if symptoms persist. Long-standing reflux that does not respond needs further testing rather than indefinite self-medication.
See a doctor urgently if
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Unintended weight loss
Vomiting blood or black stools
Chest pain that could be heart-related
Symptoms persisting despite a proper course of treatment
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Acid Reflux (GERD)?
Early signs often include burning sensation rising from the stomach to the chest, sour or bitter taste in the mouth, food or acid coming back up. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Acid Reflux (GERD) be treated?
Smaller meals, eating at least three hours before bed, raising the head of the bed and losing excess weight relieve most cases. Doctors may prescribe acid-reducing tablets for a defined period and review if symptoms persist. Long-standing reflux that does not respond needs further testing rather than indefinite self-medication.
When should I see a doctor about Acid Reflux (GERD)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: difficulty or pain when swallowing; unintended weight loss; vomiting blood or black stools; chest pain that could be heart-related; symptoms persisting despite a proper course of treatment.