Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Acid reflux
STOMACH ACID BACKS UP IN THE OESPHAGUS IRRITATING THE TISSUE IN THE THROAT
If you're experiencing a burning sensation down your throat, it could be down to acid reflux - we can help
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux is a common condition, that can affecting almost everyone from time to time. It can vary in severity and frequency, and if you regularly suffer with this condition it may be worth a specialist taking a closer look.
Reflux happens when acid in your stomach rises up your oesophagus. This can lead to a burning sensation behind your breast bone called acid indigestion or heartburn.
Acid reflux is normally brought on (and made worse) by consuming certain foods and fluids, like coffee, alcohol, chocolate and spicy and fatty foods. It can also be caused by being overweight, pregnancy, smoking and stress.
Need to know
Some common symptoms of acid reflux include:
- heartburn (a burning sensation behind your breast bone)
- regurgitation (a feeling of liquid moving up to your mouth)
- an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- a hoarse voice
- coughing
- bloating
If your acid reflux isn't going away, it may be a sign of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The symptoms of GORD tend to be more frequent and severe than normal acid reflux.
Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. They'll normally be able to make a diagnosis based on this discussion. If you've been experiencing persistent acid reflux, they may also carry out other tests at a later date to rule out GORD and other conditions.
These tests might include:
- a gastroscopy to look into your throat and/or stomach using a telescope and camera
- a barium swallow test to spot issues in your throat and/or stomach
- a 24-hour tube test to measure the amount of acidity in your stomach
Your GP or consultant will discuss your treatment options with you.
Depending on the nature of your symptoms and any test results, these could range from over-the-counter medicines to stronger drugs.
Quite often, your symptoms will clear up on their own over time by making simple dietary or lifestyle changes.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.