Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Let’s start from the beginning. What is Acid Reflux? 

Acid reflux happens when contents from your stomach move up into your esophagus. It’s also called acid regurgitation or gastroesophageal reflux. Acid reflux can cause an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest, and can radiate up toward your neck. This feeling is often known as heartburn. If you have acid reflux, you might develop a sour or bitter taste at the back of your mouth. This may cause you to regurgitate food or liquid from your stomach into your mouth. 

If you have symptoms of acid reflux more than twice a week, you might be among the 20% who have a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of GERD include:

• A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night

• Chest pain

• Difficulty swallowing

• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

• Sensation of a lump in your throat

If you have nighttime acid reflux, you might also experience:

• Chronic cough

• Laryngitis

• New or worsening asthma

• Disrupted sleep 

Should I See My Doctor?

In some cases, GERD can cause difficulty swallowing and can occasionally lead to breathing problems, including chronic cough or asthma. See your family doctor immediately if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, or jaw or arm pain.

Take our quiz, Could I have GERD? to learn more or take this referral form to your family physician and come see us for a sleep study.