Acid Reflux
Practical, pharmacist-led support for managing acid reflux across London and the Home Counties.
Pyramid Pharmacy - Helping the local community in Ashford, Beaconsfield, Bedford, Buckinghamshire, Guildford, Ilford, London, Tring, Watford and beyond.
Expert support from local pharmacists
Manage Symptoms and Find Relief
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation and sometimes chronic cough or throat irritation. Our pharmacists help you recognise common triggers—such as fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol and late-night eating—and suggest practical, evidence-based changes. We explain medication options, from quick-relief antacids to longer-term proton pump inhibitors, and consider interactions with your current medicines. For recurring or severe symptoms we can advise when tests or specialist referral are appropriate, offering a clear plan to reduce discomfort and protect your digestive health.
Quick pharmacist consultation
OTC and prescription advice
Lifestyle and diet tips
When to see your GP
Clear treatment options explained
Treatment Options and Safe Medication Use
Treatment for acid reflux ranges from simple lifestyle adjustments to medicines that reduce stomach acid. Antacids neutralise acid for immediate relief, H2 blockers reduce acid production for short-term control, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) treat frequent or severe reflux by blocking acid production. Our pharmacists review your symptoms, suggest the most appropriate over-the-counter options and explain how to use medications safely. We also highlight red flags—such as unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent vomiting—that need urgent GP assessment. Follow-up and monitoring are available to ensure effective, ongoing symptom control.
Common Symptoms
Heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, sore throat.
Available Treatments
Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors and lifestyle measures.
When to Seek Help
If your symptons won't go away, seem GP appointment.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about acid reflux, treatments and when to seek further help.
What causes acid reflux?
Acid reflux is caused by stomach acid moving up into the oesophagus, often triggered by certain foods, obesity, smoking, pregnancy or a weak lower oesophageal sphincter.
Which medicines help most?
Short-term relief: antacids. Longer control: H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors. Your pharmacist can advise which suits your symptoms and medications.
Can diet changes really help?
Yes. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating and losing weight can significantly reduce symptoms.
When should I see a doctor?
See a GP if symptoms are severe, persistent, include vomiting, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or if over-the-counter treatments don’t help.
Are reflux medicines safe long-term?
Many are safe when used as directed, but long-term use of some medicines may need review. Pharmacists can discuss risks and monitor necessity.
Key Points
Acid reflux is common and often manageable with a combination of lifestyle adjustments and appropriate medication. Quick pharmacist review can identify suitable over-the-counter treatments, check for drug interactions, and advise when to escalate to GP care. Persistent or severe symptoms, including difficulty swallowing or unintentional weight loss, warrant urgent medical review. Regular follow-up ensures treatment remains effective and safe.
Recognise common reflux triggers
Use over-the-counter options carefully
Adopt simple lifestyle changes
Seek help for alarm symptoms
Lifestyle first
Practical Lifestyle Advice
Small changes often deliver big benefits. Swap fatty foods for lighter options, limit caffeine and alcohol, quit smoking, eat smaller meals and avoid lying down for two to three hours after eating. These measures can reduce acid exposure and improve symptoms. Our pharmacists help you create a personalised plan, suggest appropriate products and advise when further investigation is needed.
