Video / Sharecare Experts / Lisa Ganjhu, DO / What Is GERD?

What Is GERD?

What Is GERD? (0:29)

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is caused when stomach acid refluxes back up into the esophagus, causing inflammation or pain. Watch gastroenterologist Roshini Raj, MD, discuss common symptoms like heartburn, coughing or trouble swallowing.

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GERD is a term that stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as acid reflex, and it's caused when the stomach acid reflexes, or goes backwards up into the esophagus where it's not supposed to be, and causes inflammation or pain. The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, usually after eating, but other symptoms include coughing, throat clearing, a horse voice, or even trouble swallowing.