GERD aka Gastroesophaegeal reflux aka heartburn

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What is GERD?

Nearly everyone experiences heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux) at some point. Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest and throat caused by acid backing up into your food pipe (esophagus).

Occasional heartburn is normal. >>>>> However, when heartburn is frequent, it can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What are the symptoms of GERD?

The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn and acid regurgitation, a sour acid taste in the back of your throat. Other signs and symptoms may include:

Indigestion Difficulty swallowing Chest pain Coughing Choking while lying down

When heartburn and acid regurgitation become chronic, the acid can irritate or inflame your esophagus (esophagitis) and even cause an ulcer on your esophagus. Stomach acid can also erode dental enamel. If you have GERD, you're at greater risk of Barrett's esophagus, a chronic inflammation of the lining of the esophagus that may sometimes lead to cancer.

What causes GERD?

The most common cause of GERD is the weakening of the valve at the lower end of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter). This valve normally opens to allow food to enter your stomach and closes to prevent food from backing up your esophagus. If you have a weakened valve, it may not close completely once food enters your stomach, allowing stomach acid to back up your esophagus.

For more information, visit the Digestive Center at MayoClinic.com.