GERD (Acid Reflux)
Also called: acid reflux, heartburn
Chronic backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
GERD happens when the valve between your stomach and esophagus relaxes too often. Typical symptoms are heartburn, regurgitation, and chronic cough. First-line treatment is weight loss, avoiding late meals, and acid-suppressing medication like a PPI or H2 blocker.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed June 2026