Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is a condition where the liquid content from the stomach regurgitates or backs up to the esophagus. The liquid that had refluxed contains acid that may inflame the lining of the esophagus or may even damage the esophagus which in some instances may lead to esophageal cancer.

Some people mistake their GERD to heartburn but GERD is more chronic and may be life long disease that requires lifestyle change, strong medications or for some surgery may work for them.

GERD Symptoms

Common GERD symptoms are:

1. Heartburn - burning feeling in the chest which may spread to the throat and sour taste in the mouth.
2. Chest pain
3. Wheezing, coughing, hoarseness
4. Regurgitation of food

Factors that worsen GERD

Hiatal hernia
Spicy foods
Mint
Carbonated drinks
Caffeine
Fatty foods
Alcohol
Eating large foods
Cigarette
Bending or lying down after eating
Certain medications like sedatives and tranquilizers

Risk Factors for GERD

Risk factors of having GERD are:

pregnancy
obesity
peptic ulcer
asthma
delayed motility
diabetes