When do I need to seek medical attention for acid reflux?

Doctor's Answer

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan
Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

Hello Janice,

Acid reflux happens to many people and not all reflux episodes require attention. Most people seek medical help only when the condition does not resolve over a period of time.

If there are other symptoms you encounter besides the sour taste, (eg. pain that comes at night or black stools) you may want to get some advice from your GP.

The issue with GERD is that the amount of symptoms and the disease severity may not go hand-in-hand. Long term GERD may result in a condition known as Barrett's oesophagus which carries a small risk of malignancy.

If your condition does not improve after a month or so, or if your symptoms worsen, do pay your GP a visit to get some treatment. If indicated, you may benefit from an upper endoscopy examination.

- Dr Quan

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