Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and GERD: Basics & Causes

By Health & Medical Last updated Wednesday, April/24/2024

Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and GERD: Basics & Causes What is acid reflux? What is GERD? Are they the same as heartburn? Get the basics about acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD.

Acid Reflux, Heartburn, & GERD

What Is Heartburn?

Technically, heartburn is the symptom you feel when acid splashes up and out of the stomach. "Heartburn" is sometimes used interchangeably with "acid reflux."

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is when stomach acid splashes up from the stomach into the esophagus. Find out more about acid reflux disease, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatments, and helpful diet and lifestyle tips.

What Is GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)?

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is severe or chronic acid reflux that can lead to complications, such as cancer.

Do I Have Heartburn or GERD?

When constant heartburn turns into GERD, do you know how to spot the difference?

Heartburn in Children and Infants

Infants and children can experience that burning sensation in the chest. According to some estimates, about 2% of children ages 3 to 9, and 5% of children ages 10 to 17, have heartburn.

Silent Reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux)

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is similar to another condition -- GERD -- that results from the contents of the stomach backing up (reflux).

Triggers

Acid Reflux Causes

Acid reflux may develop for a variety of reasons. Learn about common acid reflux triggers.

Heartburn During Pregnancy

More than half of all pregnant women report symptoms of severe heartburn, particularly during their second and third trimesters.

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