Medical Encyclopaedia › Reflux (short definition)
In brief: Reflux refers to the backflow of stomach contents into the oesophagus. Occasional heartburn is common and harmless; if the symptoms occur regularly or damage the mucosa, it is called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
Causes
The lower oesophageal sphincter does not close sufficiently. Contributing factors are overweight, large and high-fat meals, eating late, alcohol, coffee, smoking, pregnancy, a hiatus hernia and certain medicines.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms are burning pain behind the breastbone and acid regurgitation, especially after eating and when lying down. Chronic cough, hoarseness, frequent throat clearing or damage to tooth enamel can also be due to reflux.
What helps in everyday life
Smaller meals, the last meal two to three hours before going to bed, raising the head end of the bed, weight loss if overweight and avoiding personal triggers can significantly relieve the symptoms.
Medicines
For occasional symptoms, there are over-the-counter antacids and alginates. For frequent heartburn, proton pump inhibitors such as pantoprazole or omeprazole are the most effective; without medical consultation they should only be used for a short time (usually up to 14 days). Long-term therapy should be reviewed regularly by a doctor.
Warning signs
Difficulty swallowing, pain on swallowing, unintentional weight loss, vomiting blood, black stools, anaemia or new-onset symptoms from about the age of 50 should be assessed promptly by a doctor, usually with a gastroscopy. Chest pain can also come from the heart – if in doubt, call the emergency number.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Oesophagus, Stomach acid, Hiatus hernia, Proton pump inhibitors, Pantoprazole, Barrett’s oesophagus, Gastroscopy, Dysphagia
Sources
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gastroenterologie, Verdauungs- und Stoffwechselkrankheiten (DGVS): S2k-Leitlinie Gastroösophageale Refluxkrankheit und eosinophile Ösophagitis
- IQWiG: gesundheitsinformation.de – Gesundheitsinformationen des Instituts für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.