Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion and trapped wind can all be assessed and treated by our pharmacists through the free NHS minor ailments scheme — no GP appointment needed.
Our pharmacist will work out which pattern you are dealing with — reflux, indigestion or trapped wind — and check whether any of your medicines are contributing. Where appropriate we supply an antacid or acid-reducing treatment free of charge under the local NHS minor ailments scheme.
Free NHS treatment is available if you are registered with a participating local GP and do not pay for prescriptions; everyone else can still get expert advice and low-cost treatment. Use our one-minute eligibility checker and our pharmacist will be in touch to arrange your consultation — or just walk in.
What it is, what to look out for, and what actually helps — from the pharmacists who deal with it every day.
Heartburn is acid from the stomach rising into the food pipe, giving that hot, burning feeling behind the breastbone, often worse lying down or after a large meal. Indigestion is a fuller, gnawing discomfort in the upper tummy, sometimes with nausea or an early feeling of fullness. Trapped wind is the pressure and bloating that shifts with movement or burping.
Most cases respond well to timing and portion changes plus a short course of treatment. The important part is knowing which treatment fits: antacids neutralise acid on the spot, alginates form a raft that keeps acid down, and acid-reducing tablets cut production over days. Persistent symptoms, or symptoms that need treatment continuously, should be reviewed properly rather than managed indefinitely from the shelf.