Everyone gets heartburn now and then — usually after a heavy meal or a few too many coffees. But if it’s happening often, or interfering with your sleep or daily comfort, it might be something more than just occasional reflux. Persistent heartburn could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and it’s not something to ignore.
Here’s what to know, and when it’s time to call our GP doctor for Frequent Heartburn in Sotogrande.
What Counts as “Frequent”?
Heartburn becomes a medical concern when it occurs more than twice a week, or when symptoms persist despite changes in diet or over-the-counter remedies. That persistent burning in the chest, the sour taste in the throat, or the uncomfortable sensation after meals may not go away on its own — and self-managing with antacids might only provide temporary relief.
Why Frequent Heartburn Deserves a Closer Look
Chronic acid reflux, when left unaddressed, can lead to:
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus lining, often painful and irritating.
- Esophageal ulcers: Open sores caused by prolonged acid exposure.
- Barrett’s esophagus: A change in the cells lining the esophagus that can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
In some cases, people don’t even notice the classic heartburn symptoms — instead, they might experience a persistent cough, hoarseness, or a feeling that food is getting stuck. These are red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.
When to See a GP
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are serious enough to seek help, consider the following signs:
- Heartburn that doesn’t respond to basic medications
- Symptoms that wake you at night or disturb your sleep
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food not going down smoothly
- Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes
- Ongoing nausea, bloating, or fatigue linked to digestive discomfort
- A chronic sore throat or cough without another clear cause
If one or more of these sounds familiar, it’s worth discussing with a GP who can look at the bigger picture.
GP doctor for Frequent Heartburn in Sotogrande
At Helicopteros Sanitarios, we take frequent heartburn seriously because we understand how much it can impact your quality of life. Our GP doctor for Frequent Heartburn in Sotogrande offers personalized, patient-focused care to assess and treat reflux and related digestive issues.
During our visit, you can expect:
- A thorough review of your symptoms and medical history
- Guidance on dietary and lifestyle changes that support long-term relief
- Prescription treatments, if appropriate
- Referrals for diagnostic testing (such as endoscopy or pH monitoring) when necessary
This is not just about managing symptoms, it’s about understanding the root cause and preventing future complications.
Frequent heartburn is more than a nuisance. It can affect your sleep, concentration, and overall wellbeing, but the good news is that it’s also very treatable with the right care.
If you live in or around Sotogrande or the Costa del Sol and have been struggling with ongoing heartburn, don’t wait for it to become something more serious. Book a consultation with our GP, get a clear diagnosis, and take the first step toward lasting relief.