24/11/2025
Gastroesophageal reflux disease happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and causes heartburn. 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.
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.
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