Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)

Comprehensive care with compassion and expertise

At CHA, we combine a wide range of medical, surgical and allied health specialities, to provide an in-house multidisciplinary health care experience.

Medically reviewed by
Dr Keval Pandya
Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (Honours), Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians
Last medically reviewed: March 2026

What is GORD?

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the oesophagus (food pipe), causing irritation and inflammation. It affects people of all ages and is very common.

Causes & Risk Factors

Weakness of the valve between the stomach and oesophagus
Hiatus hernia
Overweight or obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Certain foods (fatty, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol)
Some medications

Symptoms & How It May Present

Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
Acid regurgitation or sour taste in the mouth
Chest discomfort
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic cough, throat clearing, or hoarseness

Symptoms may be intermittent or persistent and often worsen after meals or when lying flat.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Clinical assessment based on symptoms
Trial of acid-suppressing medication
Gastroscopy if symptoms persist, are severe, or if alarm features are present

Treatment & Management Options

Lifestyle measures (diet changes, weight loss, avoiding late meals)
Acid-suppressing medications (e.g. proton pump inhibitors)
Treating contributing factors such as hiatus hernia
Surgery is rarely required

Living With / Managing GORD

Most people achieve good symptom control with lifestyle changes and medication. Long-term monitoring may be required in selected cases.

Prevention & Risk Reduction

Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid trigger foods
Eat smaller meals
Avoid lying down soon after eating
Stop smoking

When to Seek Medical Advice

Difficulty or pain with swallowing
Unintentional weight loss
Persistent vomiting
Black stools or vomiting blood
Symptoms not improving with treatment

Our approach

At CHA, we focus on early diagnosis, clear communication and evidence-based treatment.

Timely Access

We aim to provide rapid referral and appointment times so you don’t have to wait to be seen.

Comprehensive Assessment

Our specialists use the latest imaging and diagnostic tools to identify your condition quickly and accurately.

Collaborative Care

We work closely with GPs, hospitals and other specialists to coordinate every stage of your treatment.

Personalised Treatment

Each care plan is tailored to your specific condition, goals and long-term heart health.

Ongoing Support

We provide regular follow-up, education and lifestyle guidance to help you stay healthy and prevent future problems.

Patient Journey

Your path to better health starts here. From your first consultation to recovery, we’re with you every step.

Book & prepare

Easy booking & prep guides

See your specialist

Urgent appointments are available

Get diagnosed

Advanced testing & collaborative review

Start treatment

Integrated hospital & clinic care

Recover & support

Follow-up, allied health & lifestyle advice

Why choose Complete Health Australia

Experienced specialists

Our doctors are leaders in their fields.

Collaborative approach

We work closely with your GP and other healthcare professionals to ensure your care is co-ordinated, comprehensive and evidence based.

On-site diagnostic services

Selected cardiac, respiratory, gastrointestinal and gynaecological investigations can be performed at the clinic, helping streamline assessment and follow-up.

Modern, comfortable rooms

Purpose-designed consulting rooms to support private, unhurried conversations and thorough assessments.

Support to navigate the system

Our team can help with referrals, Medicare questions, and follow-up bookings.