Acid reflux and GERD
Heartburn, acidity and how to get relief

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe, causing a burning feeling in the chest (heartburn) or a sour taste. When it happens often or causes damage, it is called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Most people get relief with simple changes and medicines. The gastroenterology team at Charak Hospital, Lucknow assesses persistent or troubling symptoms.

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About GERD

What is GERD?

A muscle ring at the lower end of the food pipe normally keeps acid in the stomach. If it relaxes at the wrong time or is weak, acid flows back up. Over time, acid can inflame the food pipe (oesophagitis).

  • Common triggers: large or late meals, spicy and oily food, tea, coffee, alcohol and smoking
  • Excess weight and pregnancy increase pressure on the stomach
  • A hiatus hernia can make reflux worse
  • Most people do not need surgery
  • Chest pain should not be assumed to be acidity — heart causes must be considered

Smaller, earlier meals

Finish dinner 2–3 hours before bed.

Raise the head of the bed

Reduces night-time reflux.

Medicines

Reduce acid when needed.

Endoscopy

When warning signs or long-standing symptoms.

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Symptoms

Symptoms

Common symptoms of reflux:

Heartburn

Burning behind the breastbone, often after meals.

Regurgitation

Sour or bitter fluid coming up into the mouth.

Cough or hoarseness

Especially at night or in the morning.

Upper abdominal discomfort

Bloating or fullness.

Night symptoms

Waking with cough or burning.

Difficulty swallowing

A warning sign — see a doctor.

Chest pain with sweating, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw may be a heart attack, not acidity. Come to the emergency department at once or call 0522-666-4444. Call 0522-666-4444.

Diagnosis

When are tests needed?

Many people are treated based on symptoms. Tests are advised if there are warning signs or symptoms persist.

Upper GI endoscopy

For difficulty swallowing, bleeding, weight loss, vomiting, anaemia, age over 50 with new symptoms, or symptoms not responding to treatment.

H. pylori test

For upper abdominal pain or ulcers.

ECG

When chest pain could be from the heart.

Other tests

pH studies in selected patients, as advised.

Treatment

Treatment

Most people improve with lifestyle changes and medicines.

Lifestyle changes

Small changes often make a big difference.

Smaller meals; avoid lying down for 2–3 hours after eatingRaise the head end of the bed by 6–8 inchesLose weight if overweight

Limit

  • Very spicy, oily and fried food
  • Tea, coffee, colas and alcohol
  • Smoking and chewing tobacco

Tight clothing

  • Avoid tight belts and waistbands
Everyday care

Living with reflux

General guidance — always follow the advice your own doctor gives you.

Meal timing

Have an early, light dinner.

Weight

Even modest weight loss reduces reflux.

Painkillers

Some painkillers irritate the stomach; ask your doctor before using them regularly.

Contact us urgently if

  • Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness
  • Vomiting blood or black stools
  • Difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • Unexplained weight loss
0522-666-4444
Myths & facts

Myths about acidity

Tap a card to see the fact.

Myth

“Cold milk cures acidity.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Milk may soothe briefly but can increase acid later. It is not a treatment.

Myth

“Acidity is always minor.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Long-standing reflux can damage the food pipe; warning signs need tests.

Myth

“Chest burning is always acidity.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Heart problems can feel similar. Get checked if unsure.

Your care team

Gastroenterologists and surgeon

Gastroenterology Upper GI endoscopy Dietetics
Practical help

What to bring, costs & insurance

A little preparation helps us help you faster.

What to bring to your visit

Tick off as you pack:

  • Previous endoscopy reports
  • List of medicines, including antacids
  • Insurance card

Costs & insurance

Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need and the length of any hospital stay. Ask our team for a written estimate.

  • ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
  • ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
  • ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
  • ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.

*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Is GERD curable?

Many people control it well with lifestyle changes and short courses of medicine. Some need longer treatment.

Do I need an endoscopy?

Only with warning signs, age over 50 with new symptoms, or symptoms not responding to treatment.

Can acidity cause chest pain?

Yes, but chest pain can also come from the heart. Seek urgent care if unsure.

Can I take acid tablets for a long time?

Long-term use should be reviewed by a doctor to use the lowest effective dose.

Glossary

Words you may hear

GERDGastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
OesophagitisInflammation of the food pipe.
Hiatus herniaPart of the stomach pushing up into the chest.
PPIProton pump inhibitor, a type of acid-reducing medicine.

No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.

Related pages

Related departments and guides

Gastroenterology Upper GI endoscopy Gastritis Peptic ulcers Heart attack Health library

Acidity not settling?

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Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.

About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Charak Hospital & Research Centre ·  Last updated: October 2026

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