Acid Reflux

Gastro-oesophageal reflux is also known as acid reflux. Acid reflux is a very common condition and a frequent cause of indigestion and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

What is acid reflux?

Acid reflux is caused when the lower oesophageal sphincter is relaxed abnormally and allows the stomach’s contents to rise back up entering the gullet. This results in a burning sensation in the chest, sometimes radiating to your back and is known as heartburn.

At the entrance of your stomach there is a valve. This valve is a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Usually the LES closes as soon as food passes through it. If the lower esophageal sphincter doesn’t close all the way, stomach acid can enter into your esophagus.

Symptoms such as indigestion and acid regurgitation typically occur after eating a large or fatty meal or drinking alcohol.

How do acid reflux treatments work?

Acid reflux disorders are usually treated by medicines that reduce stomach acid. If antacids haven’t helped with controlling the symptoms, then tablets are recommended to reduce the acid secretion.

Nexium is used to treat the symptoms of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux. Acid is produced in the stomach as a normal part of the digestive process. However, in the condition known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux, this acid is allowed to flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus), where it causes pain and a burning sensation known as heartburn.

Other medications that can help treat acid reflux; Domperidone, Losec Mups, Losec Omeprazole and Zantac.

You can also minimize the risk of developing acid reflux by changing a few things in your lifestyle. These include: losing weight, avoiding large high fat meals, reducing alcohol and coffee consumption and stop smoking.

How long does acid reflux last?

People with chronic acid reflux have flare ups that last for a day or two. However this can go on for months or longer if left untreated. Acid reflux can last between 1 – 6 hours and usually flares up after eating. Lying down straight after a meal or bending over can also cause acid reflux.

How do I buy prescription acid reflux medication online?

You need to complete an online consultation to obtain a valid prescription before purchasing acid reflux medication. This is a free and short consultation with a registered doctor. This replaces the face-to-face consult you would normally have with your GP. Once you have been approved the medication will be sent out to you the next day.

Acid reflux treatments