In this common condition, the top part of the stomach is pushed into the chest. As a result fluid from the stomach gets into the lower part of the gullet causing irritation, burning & pain, usually felt behind the lower part of the breast bone and referred to as "heartburn". Many things can bring about this situation, a common cause is being overweight. The majority of cases can be treated by simple measures rather than surgery.

Follow the instructions below, as far as possible, to minimise your symptoms:

• Avoid any food or drink which you think disagrees with you & brings on the symptoms.
  
  

• Avoid fatty or greasy food altogether.
  
  
• Avoid large meals.
  
  
• Avoid food or alcohol after 6 or 7 p.m. if at all possible.
  
  
• Do not drink too much tea or coffee. Avoid them completely if you can.
  
  
• Avoid corsets or tight belts.
  
  
• If you smoke, do your utmost to reduce it or stop it altogether.
  
  

• Avoid taking medications which contain asprin (e.g. Disprin, Solprin, Aspro, Anadin, Palaprin) & other pain killing drugs if at all possible. Paracetomol (Panadol) & Co-Proxamol (Distalgesic, Cosalgesic) are permissible only if absolutely necessary.
  
  

• Pregnancy is likely to make the symptoms worse – but this should not in any way stop you from planning a family.
  
  

• If at all possible & "socially acceptable", raise the head of your bed by placing wooden blocks, bricks or old telephone directories under the head end legs.

You may have been prescribed medication to take either regularly or when you get symptoms. Carry out these instructions meticulously.