GERD: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Manage It

  

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a chronic condition where stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus often enough to cause symptoms or irritation. A little reflux can happen to anyone, but GERD is more persistent and can affect daily comfort and sleep.

 Did you know? GERD is one of the most common digestive conditions, and symptoms can range from mild heartburn to more serious problems like trouble swallowing.

 

Common symptoms

- Heartburn, especially after meals or at night

- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

- Chest discomfort or burning

- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth

- Trouble swallowing

- A feeling that food is stuck

 

 Common triggers

- Large meals

- Fatty or fried foods

- Spicy foods

- Caffeine

- Alcohol

- Lying down soon after eating

- Eating late at night

 

 Why GERD happens

GERD often occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach, relaxes too often or doesn’t close properly. That allows acid and other stomach contents to move upward. Factors like excess body weight, pregnancy, smoking, and certain foods or medications can make reflux more likely.

 

 Tips that may help

- Eat smaller meals

- Avoid eating for 2 to 3 hours before lying down

- Raise the head of your bed if nighttime symptoms are common

- Track your triggers in a food and symptom diary

- Maintain a healthy weight if needed

- Wear looser clothing around the waist

- Limit foods and drinks that seem to worsen symptoms

 

 When to get medical help

- Symptoms happen often or are getting worse

- You have trouble swallowing

- You’re losing weight without trying

- You vomit repeatedly

- You notice black stools

- You have chest pain

 

 Bottom line

GERD is common, but it’s not something to ignore if it keeps happening. Lifestyle changes can help many people, but frequent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a clinician.