Overview
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, called the esophagus. It’s often called GERD for short. This backwash is known as acid reflux, and it can irritate the lining of the esophagus.
Many people experience acid reflux now and then. However, when acid reflux happens repeatedly over time, it can cause GERD.
Most people can manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and medicines. And though it’s uncommon, some may need surgery to help with symptoms.
Products & Services
Symptoms
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- A burning sensation in the chest, often called heartburn. Heartburn usually happens after eating and might be worse at night or while lying down.
- Backwash of food or sour liquid in the throat.
- Upper belly or chest pain.
- Trouble swallowing, called dysphagia.
- Sensation of a lump in the throat.
If you have nighttime acid reflux, you also might experience:
- An ongoing cough.
- Inflammation of the vocal cords, known as laryngitis.
- New or worsening asthma.
When to see a doctor
Seek medical help right away if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, or jaw or arm pain. These may be symptoms of a heart attack.
Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if you:
- Have severe or frequent GERD symptoms.
- Take nonprescription medicines for heartburn more than twice a week.
