Heartburn and Acid Reflux: When an Antacid Is Enough and When to See a Doctor
November 5, 2026 · 2 min read
A burning feeling in the chest after eating is often acid reflux. Small changes in habits and pharmacy medicines usually help, but some symptoms need checking.
A burning feeling in the middle of the chest after eating, sometimes with a sour taste in the mouth, is what many people call an upset stomach or rising acid. The medical names are heartburn and acid reflux. It usually feels worse after eating, when lying down, or when bending over.
Common symptoms
According to the NHS, the main symptoms are:
- A burning feeling in the middle of the chest.
- An unpleasant sour taste in the mouth.
Some people also have a cough or hiccups that keep coming back, a hoarse voice, bad breath, bloating, and nausea.
Habits that help
- Eat smaller meals more often.
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Find ways to relax.
- Raise the head of your bed by about 10 to 20 cm, for example with blocks of wood under the bed legs, so your head and chest are higher than your waist.
Interestingly, the NHS advises against piling up pillows. Extra pillows can press on the belly and make things worse.
Habits to avoid
- Foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms.
- Eating within 3 to 4 hours of going to bed.
- Clothes that are tight around the waist.
- Smoking and drinking too much alcohol.
- Stopping a prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor.
Pharmacy medicines
A pharmacist can suggest antacids or alginates to ease the symptoms. They are best taken with food or soon after eating.
Keep in mind that the NHS says these medicines only help in the short term and should not be taken regularly for a long time. If you feel you need them almost every day, that is a sign to get checked.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if:
- Changing your habits and pharmacy medicines are not helping.
- You have heartburn most days.
- You have other symptoms, such as food feeling stuck in your throat, being sick often, or losing weight for no reason.
If your symptoms get worse at any time, do not wait to get medical help.
A Coapotek pharmacist can help you choose a suitable medicine, and check whether any other medicine you take is adding to the problem.