Acid reflux from chemo. What can I do to manage it?

Hi, I had my first chemo session last week and I am really starting to get acid reflux.

can anyone recommend anything helpful to help with it please.

many thanks.

  • Hello Essexkelly and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about the acid reflux and I can understand how uncomfortable this must be for you.

    it is quite common for some of the cancer drugs to irritate the stomach lining. It may help to get an antacid to help some of the symptoms.

    We do have a list of tips on our website to help prevent some of the symptoms. You can see the list below

    • Stop smoking.
    • Limit your caffeine intake from canned drinks, coffee and tea.
    • Lose weight if you are overweight.
    • Raise the head of your bed when sleeping or lying down.
    • Eat smaller meals.
    • Don't eat for 2 or 3 hours before going to bed.
    • Reduce fatty foods in your diet, such as deep fried foods.
    • Avoid foods and drinks that may cause heartburn, such as chocolates, tomatoes, mints and alcohol.
    • Take anti acid or anti sickness medicines as prescribed by your doctor or nurse and let them know if they are not helping.
    • Use relaxing techniques to reduce your stress and anxiety.
    • Avoid painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen.

    If it is easier to contact your GP rather then the hospital , you could ask them to prescribe an anti acid or a different anti sickness tablet to help manage your symptoms before your next appointment.

    When you go back for your next appointment you will be assessed and asked how you got on with your treatment. it is important for you to tell them about any symptoms that you have experienced after your first chemotherapy so medication can be adjusted. It can sometimes help to keep a diary so you can record when acid reflux occurs such as at night or after a meal.

    You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you post on another thread or start your own you may find you get more responses from other patients.

    I wish you all the best for the rest of your chemo.

    If you would like to chat any of this through with one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to give us a call.

    The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine