Gastro-oesophageal reflux (acid reflux)

Health and Nutrition > Diseases > G Reviewed by Dr Alan Ogilvie, gastroenterologist and Dr Stephen Collins, GP

What is gastro-oesophageal reflux?

Gastro-oesophageal reflux is a condition where the lower oesophageal sphincter (the muscular ring at the lower end of the oesophagus) is abnormally relaxed and allows the stomach's acidic contents to flow back or 'reflux' into the gullet (oesophagus). It can also cause heartburn.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux is a common condition and the most frequent cause of indigestion in the UK.

What is oesophagitis?

Oesophagitis is inflammation of the inner lining of the oesophagus caused by repeated episodes of gastro-oesophageal reflux.

What are the symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux oesophagitis?

- A painful or burning sensation in the upper abdomen or chest, sometimes radiating to the back (heartburn).
- The acid reflux may reach the pharynx (throat) and mouth. It is sour and may burn.
- A small number of patients have difficulties breathing and suffer from hoarseness because the refluxed fluid irritates the larynx and respiratory tract.
- Excess belching is common.

When does gastro-oesophageal reflux occur?

- Symptoms typically occur after eating a large or fatty meal or drinking alcohol.
- Lying down, bending over or bending and lifting can all cause reflux.
- It is made worse by smoking.
- Reflux symptoms may have no apparent cause.
- The frequency with which the symptoms occur varies. For most people, they are rare but weekly and daily episodes of refluxes are not uncommon.

How does gastro-oesophageal reflux affect your health?

It is an unpleasant condition that can have a big influence on your lifestyle.

Many people feel that their quality of life is lowered by the symptoms.

Prolonged exposure to refluxed acid leads to oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus). Long-standing oesophagitis may be complicated by the formation of scar tissue that contracts and results in a narrowing (stricture) in the affected part of the oesophagus. This can make it difficult or even impossible to swallow. It is a serious condition that requires urgent assessment and treatment, but, fortunately, this complication is relatively rare.

It can cause ulceration leading to bleeding and an iron deficiency, which may develop into anaemia due to a chronic blood loss.