That burning sensation in your chest after a meal can be more than just uncomfortable—it can disrupt your sleep, affect your enjoyment of food, and impact your quality of life. Whether you're experiencing occasional heartburn or chronic GERD symptoms, UrgentDoc's English-speaking doctors can help you find relief with effective treatments available at any pharmacy in Spain.
What is Acid Reflux vs. GERD?
Understanding the difference helps determine the right treatment approach:
Acid Reflux (Occasional Heartburn)
Occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation. Occasional acid reflux is common and usually triggered by specific foods, large meals, or lying down after eating.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
A chronic condition where acid reflux occurs frequently (more than twice a week) and may cause inflammation or damage to the esophagus. GERD requires ongoing management and often prescription medication.
Common Symptoms
Our doctors can help if you're experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Heartburn – burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down
- Regurgitation – sour or bitter taste in the mouth from acid backing up
- Difficulty swallowing – sensation of food stuck in the throat or chest
- Chest pain – discomfort that may worsen when lying down or bending over
- Chronic cough – especially at night or after meals
- Hoarseness or sore throat – from acid irritating the throat
- Bloating and nausea – feeling uncomfortably full or queasy
Common Causes & Triggers
Several factors can contribute to acid reflux and GERD:
- Diet: Spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and fatty foods
- Eating habits: Large meals, eating late at night, or lying down after eating
- Hiatal hernia: When the upper stomach bulges through the diaphragm
- Obesity: Extra weight puts pressure on the abdomen and stomach
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing baby
- Smoking: Weakens the lower esophageal sphincter
- Certain medications: NSAIDs, aspirin, some blood pressure medications
- Stress: Can increase stomach acid production and sensitivity
Triggers Common for Expats in Spain
Adjusting to life in Spain may introduce new triggers:
- Late dining culture: Spanish meal times often mean eating dinner at 9-10 PM
- Rich cuisine: Olive oil, cured meats, and fried tapas can trigger symptoms
- Wine and sangria: Alcohol is a common reflux trigger
- Coffee culture: Café con leche and espresso after meals
- Citrus fruits: Abundant oranges and lemons in Spanish cooking
- Larger portions: Menú del día and social eating can lead to overeating
- Hot weather: May increase consumption of citrus drinks and alcohol
How Our Consultation Works
Book Your Appointment
Select a convenient time and describe your symptoms, including how often they occur, what triggers them, and any treatments you've already tried.
Video Consultation
Our English-speaking doctor will discuss your symptoms, medical history, diet, and lifestyle to determine whether you have occasional reflux or GERD.
Treatment Plan & Prescription
Receive a personalized treatment plan with lifestyle recommendations and prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy in Spain.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the frequency and severity of your symptoms:
- Antacids: Quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid (available over-the-counter)
- H2 blockers: Reduce acid production (famotidine, ranitidine alternatives)
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole—most effective for GERD
- Prokinetics: Help the stomach empty faster in some cases
- Alginate-based medications: Form a barrier on top of stomach contents
- Lifestyle modifications: Often the first line of treatment
Lifestyle Changes That Help
These modifications can significantly reduce symptoms:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones
- Don't lie down for at least 3 hours after eating
- Elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing around your waist
- Quit smoking if you smoke
- Limit alcohol, coffee, and carbonated beverages
- Identify and avoid your personal trigger foods
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
- Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
Foods to Limit or Avoid
Common Triggers
- Citrus fruits and juices
- Tomatoes and tomato sauce
- Spicy foods
- Chocolate
- Coffee and caffeinated drinks
- Alcohol (especially red wine)
- Fatty and fried foods
- Mint and peppermint
- Onions and garlic
Generally Safe Foods
- Oatmeal and whole grains
- Ginger
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish)
- Vegetables (except tomatoes)
- Non-citrus fruits
- Egg whites
- Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil in moderation)
- Herbal teas (not mint)
- Water
When to Seek Immediate Care
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Severe chest pain or pressure (could be heart-related)
- Pain radiating to arm, jaw, or neck
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Black, tarry stools
- Severe difficulty swallowing
- Unintentional weight loss
- Persistent vomiting
- Symptoms that don't improve with medication
Chest pain should always be evaluated promptly, as heart attack symptoms can mimic severe heartburn.
Why Choose UrgentDoc for Acid Reflux & GERD?
Quick Relief
Same-day appointments to get effective treatment started
Personalized Plan
Treatment tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle
English-Speaking Doctors
Describe your symptoms clearly without language barriers
Prescription Medications
PPIs and other treatments at any Spanish pharmacy
Suffering from Heartburn or Acid Reflux?
Get effective treatment and start feeling better. Book a consultation with one of our doctors today.
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