GERD: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Explained Simply

What is GERD?

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. It is a common digestive problem. In GERD, stomach acid flows back into the tube that connects your mouth and stomach. This tube is called the esophagus. Because of this backflow, you may feel a burning pain in your chest. Doctors call this heartburn. GERD can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common in adults. If you have heartburn often, you might have GERD.

Common Symptoms of GERD

Many people with GERD notice certain signs. These symptoms can happen often or just sometimes. For example, you may feel discomfort after eating. Below are common GERD symptoms:

Burning feeling in the chest (heartburn)

Food or sour liquid coming back up into your mouth (regurgitation)

Difficulty swallowing

Feeling like you have a lump in your throat

Chronic cough or sore throat

Hoarseness or voice changes

Chest pain, especially after eating

Sometimes, GERD symptoms can be mild. But, they can also be severe and affect daily life.

Causes and Risk Factors

GERD happens when the muscle at the end of your esophagus does not close properly. As a result, stomach acid can move back up. Several things can raise your risk for GERD. For instance, your lifestyle and health can play a role. Here are some common causes and risk factors:

Being overweight or obese

Eating large meals or lying down after eating

Eating spicy, fatty, or fried foods

Drinking alcohol, coffee, or soda

Smoking

Pregnancy

Certain medicines, like asthma drugs or painkillers

Because these factors can be managed, making changes may help reduce GERD symptoms.

How GERD is Diagnosed

If you have GERD symptoms, your doctor will ask about your health and symptoms. Sometimes, they may suggest tests to confirm GERD. For example, these tests can help rule out other problems. Common ways to diagnose GERD include:

Physical exam and medical history

Upper endoscopy (a thin tube with a camera looks at your esophagus)

pH monitoring (measures acid in your esophagus)

Esophageal manometry (checks muscle strength in your esophagus)

X-ray of your upper digestive system

Because GERD can look like other conditions, these tests help your doctor find the right answer.

Treatment Options for GERD

Doctors use several ways to treat GERD. Your treatment depends on how bad your symptoms are. For mild GERD, lifestyle changes may be enough. However, some people need medicine or other treatments. Here are common GERD treatment options:

Over-the-counter antacids to reduce acid

Prescription medicines to lower acid production

Medicines to help your esophagus heal

Surgery, in rare cases, if other treatments do not work

Because each person is different, your doctor will suggest the best GERD treatment for you.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Making simple changes can help prevent GERD symptoms. For example, you can try these lifestyle tips:

Eat smaller meals more often

Avoid spicy, fatty, or fried foods

Do not lie down right after eating

Raise the head of your bed

Lose weight if needed

Quit smoking

Limit alcohol and caffeine

Wear loose-fitting clothes

Because these steps are easy to follow, they can make a big difference in your daily comfort.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, GERD symptoms can be serious. For instance, if you have chest pain, trouble swallowing, or weight loss, see a doctor right away. You should also get help if:

Your symptoms do not get better with home care

You have trouble breathing

You vomit blood or see blood in your stool

Because GERD can lead to other health problems, early care is important.

Consult a gastroenterologist for personalized guidance.