Acid Reflux (GERD)

A patient holding their chest in discomfort, sitting upright in bed at night, with a glass of water and antacid bottle on the nightstand — warm, relatable lighting.

Acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This backwash (reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus and lead to persistent symptoms if not properly managed. GERD is common and treatable, but if left unchecked, it can cause long-term complications such as esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus.

Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
Sour taste in the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic cough or sore throat
Hoarseness or voice changes
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Worsening symptoms at night or after meals

Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, elevating the head of the bed
Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Procedures: Endoscopy for diagnosis and management of complications
Surgery (in severe cases): Laparoscopic fundoplication or LINX device placement

Weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Hiatal hernia
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Certain foods and beverages (spicy, acidic, or fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol)
Medications like NSAIDs or muscle relaxers

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
Sour taste in the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic cough or sore throat
Hoarseness or voice changes
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Worsening symptoms at night or after meals

Causes

Weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Hiatal hernia
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Certain foods and beverages (spicy, acidic, or fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol)
Medications like NSAIDs or muscle relaxers

Treatments

Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, elevating the head of the bed
Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Procedures: Endoscopy for diagnosis and management of complications
Surgery (in severe cases): Laparoscopic fundoplication or LINX device placement

Acid Reflux (GERD)

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

Causes

Treatments

Specialties That Treat This Condition

Related Conditions

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