Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), happens when stomach acid or food flows back into the esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, relaxes or gets weak. Common symptoms include a burning feeling in the throat or chest (heartburn), a bitter taste in the mouth, burping, nausea, and bloating. Many people experience acid reflux occasionally, especially after eating a large meal or lying down too soon after eating.
Having acid reflux now and then is normal, but frequent episodes could mean you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affecting about 20% of the U.S. population. GER is generally caused by eating spicy or fatty foods, drinking carbonated drinks or fruit juices, certain medical conditions, and some medications. It is also known as heartburn, acid reflux, and acid indigestion.
GERD is a chronic form of acid reflux, where symptoms persist and can harm the esophagus. Beyond typical GER symptoms, GERD can cause trouble swallowing, chest pain, a chronic cough, and throat irritation. If GERD isn’t treated, it can lead to complications.
Acid reflux symptoms differ from person to person. Some people show no symptoms, while others may have common signs like heartburn. Acid reflux usually occurs when the LES relaxes or becomes weak, allowing stomach contents to return to the esophagus. Factors such as diet, obesity, smoking, and certain medications can weaken the LES.
Diagnosing acid reflux is usually straightforward and based on your symptoms. For occasional cases, over-the-counter medicines may help alleviate symptoms. If acid reflux occurs often or you have symptoms suggesting GERD complications, your healthcare provider might recommend tests.
Treatment generally involves lifestyle changes and medications. Occasionally, acid reflux can be managed with lifestyle habits and OTC medications like antacids, H2-receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. However, if these don’t work, prescription medications might be needed.
To manage or prevent acid reflux, consider lifestyle changes like eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and maintaining a healthy weight. Even though occasional acid reflux is normal and solvable with OTC medications, frequent reflux signals GERD, which needs medical attention for diagnosis and treatment. Certain drinks like water, ginger tea, non-citrus juices, and low-fat milk might help with symptoms.
Acid reflux is often worse on an empty stomach because there’s less food to absorb stomach acid. Heartburn is a specific symptom of acid reflux, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat when stomach acid irritates the esophagus.
