OverviewGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Show
Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. However, when acid reflux happens repeatedly over time, it can cause GERD. Most people are able to manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and medications. And though it's uncommon, some may need surgery to ease symptoms. SymptomsCommon signs and symptoms of GERD include:
If you have nighttime acid reflux, you might also experience:
When to see a doctorSeek immediate medical care if you have chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath, or jaw or arm pain. These may be signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Make an appointment with your doctor if you:
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this information with your protected health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesGERD is caused by frequent acid reflux or reflux of nonacidic content from the stomach. When you swallow, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again. If the sphincter does not relax as it should or it weakens, stomach acid can flow back into your esophagus. This constant backwash of acid irritates the lining of your esophagus, often causing it to become inflamed. Risk factorsConditions that can increase your risk of GERD include:
Factors that can aggravate acid reflux include:
ComplicationsOver time, chronic inflammation in your esophagus can cause:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) care at Mayo Clinic July 26, 2022
RelatedAssociated ProceduresProducts & ServicesWhich patient is most likely to be at risk for developing gastroesophageal reflux disease?GERD can emerge in people of all ages but its prevalence rises sharply in people over 40 due to their reduced saliva production and peristalsis (contractions that move food through the esophagus). Diet and lifestyle choices play an important role in likelihood of developing acid reflux.
Who is mostly affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease?The prevalence of GERD is slightly higher in men compared to women[14]. A large meta-analysis study by Eusebi et al. estimated the pooled prevalence of GERD symptoms to be marginally higher in women compared with men (16.7% (95% CI 14.9% to 18.6%) vs. 15.4% (95% CI 13.5% to 17.4%)[12].
Where is gastroesophageal reflux disease most common?GERD is a chronic and highly prevalent disorder. A recent systematic review showed that the prevalence of GERD is 18.1–27.8% in North America, 8.8–25.9% in Europe, 2.5–7.8% in East Asia, 8.7–33.1% in the Middle East, 11.6% in Australia, and 23.0% in South America.
How do you get gastroesophageal reflux disease?Eating large meals or eating late at night. Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods. Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee. Taking certain medications, such as aspirin.
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