Heartburn and Gastro-Oesophageal Treatments: What You Need to Know
For many in the UK, heartburn is more than just an occasional annoyance. It can interfere with daily comfort, sleep, and overall quality of life. Often described as a burning sensation in the chest or throat, heartburn is typically a symptom of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) — a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus. Thankfully, modern medicine offers a range of effective treatments, and with expert care from clinics like Chase Lodge Hospital, long-term relief is entirely achievable.
What Causes Heartburn and GORD?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid escapes into the oesophagus, irritating its lining. This backward flow, or reflux, happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter (a ring of muscle at the base of the oesophagus) becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately. While almost everyone experiences acid reflux at some point, frequent episodes may indicate GORD.
Several lifestyle and health factors can contribute to the condition, including:
Being overweight or obese
Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
Eating large or fatty meals, particularly close to bedtime
Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers)
Pregnancy
Understanding these triggers is the first step in managing symptoms and preventing recurrence.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
GORD presents itself in a variety of ways, with heartburn being the most recognisable. However, other symptoms may also signal reflux-related problems:
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Chronic cough or throat clearing
Hoarseness or sore throat
Sensation of a lump in the throat
If you experience persistent symptoms — especially more than twice a week — it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Ignoring GORD can lead to complications such as oesophagitis, strictures, or even Barrett’s oesophagus, a pre-cancerous condition.
Diagnosis: What to Expect
At Chase Lodge Hospital, our specialists use a thorough approach to accurately diagnose and assess the severity of reflux issues. During your consultation, your GP or gastroenterologist will take a detailed history and may recommend one or more of the following:
Endoscopy – a small camera is used to examine the oesophagus and stomach lining
24-hour pH monitoring – measures acid levels in the oesophagus over a day
Barium swallow X-ray – highlights abnormalities in swallowing or oesophageal function
Manometry testing – evaluates the pressure and coordination of oesophageal muscles
These diagnostic tools help tailor the most effective treatment plan to your specific needs.
Treatment Options Available
Treatment for heartburn and GORD depends on symptom severity and underlying causes. At Chase Lodge Hospital, we provide a combination of evidence-based medical management and personalised care. Treatment options include:
1. Lifestyle Modifications
Many patients experience symptom relief through simple changes such as:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding trigger foods (e.g., spicy, acidic, or fried items)
Eating smaller meals
Elevating the head of the bed
Quitting smoking
2. Medications
A range of over-the-counter and prescription medications are available, including:
Antacids to neutralise stomach acid
H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine) to reduce acid production
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole, which are highly effective for long-term management
Your GP will help determine which medication is right for you, balancing effectiveness with potential side effects.
3. Surgical Interventions
For patients with severe or medication-resistant GORD, surgical options such as laparoscopic fundoplication may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure strengthens the oesophageal sphincter, helping prevent reflux.
Why Choose Chase Lodge Hospital?
At Chase Lodge Hospital, we understand how disruptive chronic heartburn can be. Our multi-disciplinary team of GPs, gastroenterologists, and diagnostic specialists work together to offer fast access to care, accurate testing, and personalised treatment pathways. With our patient-first philosophy, we aim to empower individuals to regain control of their digestive health in a supportive and private environment.
Whether you’re dealing with occasional discomfort or daily distress, we’re here to help you navigate every stage of your care journey — from consultation to diagnosis and beyond.
Conclusion
Heartburn and GORD might be common, but they shouldn’t be dismissed. Persistent symptoms deserve attention, especially when they impact your wellbeing or may signal more serious issues. With the right combination of lifestyle changes, expert treatment, and ongoing support, most people can find lasting relief.
If you’re struggling with persistent heartburn, don’t wait. Book a consultation with Chase Lodge Hospital today and take the first step towards better digestive health.
