Reflux: symptoms, daily life and safe care

Reflux means stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus, or food pipe. Occasional reflux differs from reflux disease causing repeated symptoms or damage. Burning in the chest and a sour taste may occur, but not every chest pain is reflux.

A clinician reviews symptom duration, links with meals and your medicines. Endoscopy is not always the first step; further tests depend on symptoms and risks. Symptoms that persist or recur despite treatment need reassessment.

Medicines that reduce acid or relieve symptoms may help suitable patients; plan long-term use or dose changes with a clinician. Ask about non-prescription products too if pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medicines. Surgery is considered in selected situations, not for everyone.

A baby with reflux should still be placed on their back at the start of every sleep on a firm, flat surface. Reflux pillows, inclined mattresses or raising the cot head are not safe sleep methods. Holding a baby upright while awake around feeds is not a sleeping position.

Report poor weight gain or feeding difficulty to a child-health clinician. Green or bloody vomit, projectile vomiting, refusing feeds or being unable to keep fluids down need prompt assessment; do not assume these are ordinary reflux.

Get prompt assessment for difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss or persistent vomiting. Bloody or coffee-ground-like vomit or black tarry stools require emergency care. Do not dismiss new chest pressure, breathlessness or cold sweats as reflux; call 112.