Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus (the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach).
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious, chronic or long lasting form of GER. GER that occurs more than twice a week for a few weeks could be GERD, which over time can lead to more serious health problems.
Symptoms
The main symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn, though some adults with GERD do not have heartburn. Other common GERD symptoms include
Causes
GERD occurs when the anti-reflux mechanisms at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach do not work properly. This may be due to a weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter that is supposed to close off the esophagus from the stomach and stop acid reflux from happening.
How is GERD diagnosed?
Treatment