Heartburn/GERD
This post is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Almost everyone has felt the occasional burning and/or nausea in their chest after a big meal, a spicy dinner, or too much coffee. That’s heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux. But when heartburn happens frequently, it can be a sign of something more chronic called GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
What’s the Difference?
Heartburn: An occasional symptom, usually triggered by certain foods, drinks, or habits.
GERD: A chronic condition where stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus (the food pipe), causing frequent heartburn and other symptoms.
Common Symptoms of GERD
Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week)
Sour taste in the mouth or regurgitation of food/liquid
Trouble swallowing or feeling like food is “stuck”
Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
Chest pain (always important to rule out heart causes first!)
Why It Matters
Many people brush off heartburn as a minor annoyance, but untreated GERD can lead to more serious health problems:
Esophagitis: Ongoing irritation and inflammation of the esophagus.
Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult.
Barrett’s esophagus: A change in the lining of the esophagus that can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
Sleep issues: Acid reflux can worsen at night, leading to poor rest and fatigue.
What You Can Do
The good news is, GERD can usually be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or both. Some steps that help include:
Watch your diet: Limit spicy, fried, and acidic foods; cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. If you are aware of certain foods giving you heartburn, please don’t eat those foods.
Eat smart: Smaller meals, avoid lying down right after eating, and don’t eat late at night.
Lifestyle habits: Quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, and elevate your head while sleeping.
Talk to your provider: If symptoms are frequent, severe, or not improving, it’s important to get checked. Sometimes prescription medication or further evaluation is needed.
Occasional heartburn is common, but if it keeps happening, don’t ignore it. GERD is more than just discomfort—it can affect your long-term health. By recognizing the signs early and working with your healthcare provider, you can protect your esophagus and feel better every day.
-Nina