Do you know what’s really behind your acid reflux?

We've got the lowdown on what might be causing your discomfort - and what you can do to get some relief.

If you've braved some of the spicier hot sauces at your local burrito spot or scoffed your lunch a little too quickly, chances are you've experienced acid reflux or heartburn.

For a lot of us, that uncomfortable feeling in the chest is all too relatable - but have you ever wondered what's actually going in your body when heartburn rears its ugly head?

We've partnered with Maalox to shine a light on the causes, symptoms and remedies for heartburn so that next time you experience acid reflux, you're equipped with the knowledge to tackle it.

So what exactly is acid reflux?

According to the HSE, acid reflux - or heartburn - is a burning feeling in the chest that occurs when stomach acid moves up towards the throat.

What exactly are the symptoms of heartburn?

Heartburn can cause a range of symptoms, and they might worsen after eating, bending over or lying down. In addition to the burning feeling, you might also experience a bad taste in your mouth, which is the result of the stomach acid travelling upwards.

Other symptoms include cough, recurring hiccups, nausea, bloating, hoarseness and bad breath.

What causes heartburn?

Many people will experience from time to time, and for some, there is no obvious reason why.

However, the HSE have said that the following may cause or make heartburn worse:

• Certain food and drink, including coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty and spicy foods.
• Pregnancy
• Carrying extra weight
• Smoking
• Stress or anxiety
• Certain medications such as anti-inflammatory painkillers
• A hiatus hernia

What can I do to prevent heartburn?

There are a number of steps you can take to try and reduce the likelihood of experiencing heartburn. Instead of large meals three times a day, opt for smaller, more frequent meals. If stress is causing your heartburn, try and find ways to manage it, such as taking exercise, talking to those in your support network or reaching out to a mental health professionals.

The HSE also recommends using books or wood to raise the top of your bed to prevent the flow of acid into your throat.

Avoiding triggering foods and eating your last meal between three to four hours before you go to bed may also help prevent acid reflux. If smoking is causing your heartburn, the HSE recommends using resources to quit smoking. Excessive alcohol consumption should also be avoided.

What can I take to relieve heartburn?

Over-the-counter medication can help. Maalox Plus Oral Suspension and Maalox Plus Chewable Tablets provides fast-acting gentle relief from heartburn, acid digestion plus trapped wind. Both products are available from pharmacies across Ireland and you can learn more right here.

Maalox Plus 200 mg / 175 mg / 25 mg Oral Suspension contains magnesium hydroxide, aluminium oxide and simeticone. Maalox Plus Chewable Tablets 200 mg / 200 mg / 25 mg contains Hydrated aluminium oxide, Magnesium hydroxide and Dimeticone. Maalox Plus 200 mg / 175 mg / 25 mg Oral Suspension can be taken one to two x 5ml spoonfuls four times a day (after meals and at bedtime) or as required. Maalox Plus Chewable Tablets 200 mg / 200 mg / 25 mg can be taken one to two tablets four times a day (after meals and at bedtime) or as required. Not recommended in children. Always read the label. Date prepared: 2025/ADV/MAL/197C