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Heartburn and acid reflux

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). If it keeps happening, it may be called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

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Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor online

Talk to a doctor online

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

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Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years of experience

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). If it keeps happening, it may be called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

Symptoms of acid reflux

The main symptoms of acid reflux are:

  • heartburn – a burning sensation in the middle of your chest
  • an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth, caused by stomach acid

You may also have:

  • a cough or hiccups that keep coming back
  • a hoarse voice
  • bad breath
  • bloating and feeling sick

Symptoms are often worse after eating, when lying down and when bending over.

Causes of heartburn and acid reflux

Lots of people get heartburn from time to time. There's often no obvious reason why.

Sometimes it's caused or made worse by:

  • certain food and drink – such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods
  • being overweight
  • smoking
  • pregnancy - find out more about indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy
  • stress and anxiety
  • an increase in some types of hormones, such as progesterone and oestrogen
  • some medicines, such as anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen)
  • a hiatus hernia – when part of your stomach moves up into your chest
  • a stomach ulcer
  • a bacterial infection in your stomach

How you can ease heartburn and acid reflux yourself

Simple lifestyle changes can help stop or reduce heartburn.

Do

  • eat smaller, more frequent meals

  • try to lose weight if you're overweight

  • try to find ways to relax

Don’t

  • do not have food or drink that triggers your symptoms

  • do not eat within 3 or 4 hours before bed

  • do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist

  • do not smoke

  • do not drink too much alcohol

  • do not stop taking any prescribed medicine without speaking to a doctor first

You may find that using wood, bricks or books to raise the head of your bed by around 10 to 20cm, so your chest and head are above your waist, helps relieve symptoms. This can help stop stomach acid travelling up towards your throat.

But do not try to achieve the same effect by using additional pillows, as this can increase pressure on your belly and make your symptoms worse.

Consult with a doctor about Heartburn and acid reflux

Consult with a doctor about Heartburn and acid reflux

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

A pharmacist can help with heartburn and acid reflux

Speak to a pharmacist for advice if you keep getting heartburn.

They may recommend medicines called antacids or alginates that can help ease your symptoms.

It's best to take these with food or soon after eating, as this is when you're most likely to get heartburn. They may also work for longer if taken with food.

Although antacids and alginates help symptoms in the short term, they will not cure the problem and should not be taken regularly for long periods.

If you're pregnant, a pharmacist can advise you about medicines you can take.

See a GP if:

  • lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping your heartburn
  • you have heartburn most days
  • you also have other symptoms, like food getting stuck in your throat, frequently being sick, or losing weight for no reason

A GP can provide alternative or stronger treatments and help rule out any more serious causes of your symptoms.

Treatment for heartburn and acid reflux from a GP

If you have acid reflux, a GP may prescribe a medicine called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces how much acid your stomach makes.

PPIs include:

  • omeprazole
  • lansoprazole

You'll usually need to take this type of medicine for 4 or 8 weeks, depending on how serious your acid reflux is.

Go back to the GP if your symptoms return after stopping your medicine. You may need a long-term prescription.

Important

If a PPI does not help, your doctor may suggest trying a different type of medicine called an H2 receptor antagonist, such as famotidine.

Tests and treatments for severe heartburn and acid reflux

If medicines do not help or your symptoms are severe, a GP may refer you to a specialist for:

  • tests to find out what's causing your symptoms, such as a gastroscopy (where a thin tube with a camera inside it is passed down your throat and into your stomach)
  • tests to check for bacteria that can cause heartburn – this can be treated with a combination of antibiotics and PPIs
  • surgery on your stomach or food pipe (oesophagus) to stop acid reflux

Online doctors for Heartburn and acid reflux

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Heartburn and acid reflux with a doctor online.

0.0 (17)
Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years of experience

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

5.0 (100)
Doctor

Tarek Agami

General medicine 11 years of experience

Dr. Tarek Agami is a general practitioner registered in both Portugal and Israel, with broad experience in family and preventive medicine. He offers online consultations for adults and children, providing personalised support for primary care needs, chronic disease management, and everyday health concerns.

Dr. Agami received clinical training and worked in leading medical institutions in Israel (Kaplan Medical Center, Barzilai Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center) and Portugal (European Healthcare City, Viscura Internacional, Hospital Dr. José Maria Grande, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira). His approach combines international medical standards with individualised attention to each patient.

Main areas of consultation:

  • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory infections, cardiovascular symptoms)
  • Evaluation of symptoms and guidance on further diagnostic testing
  • Preventive check-ups and regular health monitoring
  • Medical support during travel or after relocation
  • Treatment adjustments and lifestyle recommendations based on your personal history
Dr. Agami provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Mounjaro) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Portugal and Israel.

Dr. Agami is committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care, ensuring that each person receives trusted medical support tailored to their health goals.

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Doctor

Chikeluo Okeke

General medicine 4 years of experience

Dr Chikeluo Okeke is an internal medicine doctor with extensive international clinical experience. Originally from Nigeria, he has worked across multiple European healthcare systems and currently practises in Sweden. This professional path has given him a strong understanding of different medical approaches and the ability to work effectively with patients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Dr Okeke focuses on general internal medicine and adult primary care, combining clinical accuracy with careful attention to lifestyle, personal context, and everyday health concerns. His consultations are particularly well suited for people who seek medical advice online, live abroad, or need clear guidance without unnecessary complexity.

He provides online consultations covering symptom assessment, prevention, and long-term management of chronic conditions, helping patients understand what is happening and decide on appropriate next steps.

Common reasons for consultation:

  • General internal medicine concerns and initial health assessment.
  • Acute symptoms such as fever, cough, infections, pain, or weakness.
  • Chronic conditions and treatment adjustment.
  • Blood pressure issues, fatigue, metabolic concerns.
  • Preventive consultations and routine check-ups.
  • Interpretation of laboratory results and medical reports.
  • Medical advice for patients receiving care online.

Dr Okeke is known for his clear communication, calm approach, and cultural awareness. He listens carefully, explains medical decisions in a structured way, and supports patients in making informed choices about their health.

Online consultations with Dr Chikeluo Okeke offer reliable internal medicine care without geographic limitations, focused on medical relevance, clarity, and patient comfort.

5.0 (110)
Doctor

Jorge Correa Bellido

General medicine 7 years of experience

Dr. Jorge Correa Bellido is a Spanish physician who offers online consultations in Spanish and English. He graduated from the University of La Laguna and has a solid background in clinical practice and international research.

Throughout his career, he has participated in various medical and academic projects, including a research fellowship in Spain, where he contributed to evidence-based studies in the field of family medicine. This experience allowed him to broaden his global perspective on healthcare and comprehensive patient care.

Dr. Correa Bellido has worked with several healthcare providers in Spain, focusing particularly on patient-centered care and public health initiatives aimed at communities with limited access to healthcare services.

In addition, he actively participates in international medical conferences and workshops, which allows him to stay up to date with the latest medical advances and collaborate with healthcare professionals from different countries.

Dr. Correa Bellido provides comprehensive care for a wide variety of medical conditions, including:

  • respiratory infections
  • gastrointestinal disorders
  • cardiovascular problems
  • endocrine and metabolic diseases
  • musculoskeletal and dermatological conditions
  • as well as mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

He also treats infectious and allergic diseases, general health concerns, and provides guidance on prevention and healthy lifestyle habits.

His services include virtual consultations, diagnosis and management of acute and chronic diseases, prescription renewals, and personalized medical advice.

With a patient-centered approach and a strong commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Correa Bellido provides accessible and high-quality healthcare to patients both in Spain and around the world.

5.0 (213)
Doctor

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicine 18 years of experience

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
  • Weight management and wellness: personalised weight loss programmes, lifestyle guidance
  • Skin and ENT issues: acne, eczema, allergies, rashes, sore throat, sinusitis
  • Pain management: acute and chronic pain, post-surgical care
  • Public health: prevention, health screenings, long-term monitoring
  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

5.0 (94)
Doctor

Lina Travkina

Family medicine 13 years of experience

Dr. Lina Travkina is a licensed family and preventive medicine doctor based in Italy. She provides online consultations for adults and children, supporting patients across all stages of care – from acute symptom management to long-term health monitoring and prevention.

Areas of medical care include:

  • Respiratory conditions: colds, flu, acute and chronic bronchitis, mild to moderate pneumonia, bronchial asthma.
  • ENT and eye conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, infectious and allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Digestive issues: gastritis, acid reflux (GERD), IBS, dyspepsia, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, functional bowel symptoms, intestinal infections.
  • Urological and infectious diseases: acute and recurrent cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, prevention of recurrent UTIs, asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  • Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, thyroid disorders, excess weight.
  • Neurological and general symptoms: headache, migraine, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, anxiety, asthenia.
  • Chronic pain support: back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, tension syndromes, pain associated with osteochondrosis and chronic conditions.

Additional care areas:

  • Preventive consultations and check-up planning.
  • Medical advice and follow-up consultations.
  • Test interpretation and diagnostic guidance.
  • Structured support for undiagnosed complaints.
  • Second opinion on diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Nutritional and lifestyle support for vitamin deficiencies, anaemia, metabolic issues.
  • Post-operative recovery support and pain management.
  • Preconception counselling and postpartum support.
  • Immunity support and strategies to reduce frequency of infections.

Dr. Travkina combines evidence-based medicine with an attentive, personalised approach. Her consultations focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

If during the consultation it becomes clear that your case requires in-person assessment or specialised care outside of her scope, the session will be terminated and the payment fully refunded.

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