Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid or bile flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. This backward flow is called acid reflux, and when it occurs frequently (more than twice a week), it is diagnosed as GERD. GERD often causes heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest — especially after eating or when lying down. Other symptoms include regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, chronic cough, and a sensation of a lump in the throat. If untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications such as esophagitis, esophageal strictures, ulcers, or Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition.