GERD (Acid Reflux): Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
GERD (Acid Reflux) - Stomach acid flowing back into the food pipe, causing heartburn and sour taste.
What is GERD?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into the oesophagus (food pipe). The muscle valve at the bottom of the oesophagus does not close properly. Occasional heartburn is common, but GERD means symptoms happen often, usually twice a week or more, or cause damage to the oesophagus.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Overweight
- Large or late meals
- Fatty or spicy food, chocolate, coffee
- Smoking and alcohol
- Pregnancy
- Hiatus hernia
Signs and Symptoms
- Burning chest pain (heartburn) after meals
- Sour or bitter taste
- Regurgitation of food
- Cough or hoarse voice
- Bloating and nausea
Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Urgently
- Difficulty or pain swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain that could be heart-related - get urgent care
Diagnosis: Tests, Lab and Imaging
Diagnosis is often based on symptoms and response to treatment. Endoscopy is done for warning signs or persistent symptoms.
Treatment and Medicines
Lifestyle changes help: smaller meals, avoiding food 3 hours before bed, raising the head of the bed and losing weight. Antacids give quick relief. Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole or pantoprazole reduce acid when used as advised.
Emergency
If you notice any red-flag sign, call 1122 (Pakistan), 911 (USA), 999 (UK) or 112 (Europe), or go to the nearest emergency department. See our emergency first aid guide.
Complications
Oesophagitis, narrowing of the oesophagus and Barrett's oesophagus.
Prevention
- Eat smaller, earlier meals
- Maintain healthy weight
- Limit trigger foods
- Avoid smoking
Outlook and Follow-up
Most people control symptoms well with lifestyle change and medicine.
Patient Education
Write down your questions before appointments, bring a list of all medicines, and ask what results mean for you. Use our symptom checker to learn which departments relate to your symptoms. This GERD guide is educational and reviewed against WHO, CDC and NIH sources by the ghkh.site editorial team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is heartburn related to the heart?
No, it comes from the food pipe, but chest pain must be checked if unsure.
Can I take omeprazole long term?
Only under medical review.
Does milk help reflux?
It may soothe briefly but can increase acid later.
Sources
We summarise these sources in our own words. Mention of an organisation does not imply endorsement.