What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as stomach contents flowing back into the esophagus and causing troublesome symptoms or complications (the Montreal definition; Vakil et al., 2006). When an endoscopy shows the lining of the esophagus is damaged, it's called reflux esophagitis. Reflux is more likely when the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle ring between the stomach and esophagus, relaxes too much or pressure in the abdomen rises.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux?
- Heartburn: a burning feeling rising from the upper belly into the chest
- Regurgitation: sour or bitter fluid coming up into your mouth
- A lump in the throat, hoarseness or a chronic cough
- Symptoms that get worse after meals or when lying down
Causes and triggers
| Factor | Examples |
|---|---|
| Abdominal pressure | Belly fat, pregnancy, tight clothing |
| Eating habits | Big meals, late-night snacks, lying down right after eating |
| Food and habits | Varies by person; alcohol, smoking, fatty foods and caffeine are common triggers |
| Anatomy | Hiatal hernia |
Treatment and self-care
The American College of Gastroenterology guideline (Katz et al., 2022) recommends weight loss if you're overweight, avoiding meals 2–3 hours before bed, raising the head of the bed for nighttime symptoms, and quitting smoking. The mainstay of medication is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to cut acid production, stepped down to the lowest effective dose once symptoms improve. Trouble swallowing, weight loss, vomiting blood, black stools or anemia are alarm signs that call for an endoscopy. For the bacterium linked to gastritis and ulcers, see Helicobacter pylori.
FAQ
- Can GERD be cured?
- Medication heals inflammation well, but symptoms often return if the underlying causes stay, which is why lifestyle changes matter too.
- Is chest pain always reflux?
- No. Chest pain can be a heart problem—especially pain with exertion or cold sweats—so heart causes should be ruled out first.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Vakil, N., van Zanten, S. V., Kahrilas, P., Dent, J., & Jones, R. (2006). The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: A global evidence-based consensus. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 101(8), 1900–1920.
- Katz, P. O., Dunbar, K. B., Schnoll-Sussman, F. H., et al. (2022). ACG clinical guideline for the diagnosis and management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 117(1), 27–56.