Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which the stomach contents reflux into the esophagus due to a dysfunctional esophageal sphincter; it affects up to 1 in 6 people globally. Although it is not life-threatening, GERD can significantly affect quality of life and may increase the risk of esophageal cancer if untreated, but it can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.

The main signs and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include tooth erosion, chest pain, chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma, and heartburn. Additionally, GERD is associated with an increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and Barrett’s esophagus, which can lead to esophageal cancer.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be diagnosed primarily through symptoms, but it may require referral to a gastroenterologist for further testing. This testing can include upper endoscopy, pH measurement of the esophagus, or a barium swallow to observe the esophageal sphincter.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is initially treated with lifestyle modifications, and if those are insufficient, acid-suppressing medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers may be prescribed, though long-term use of PPIs raises concerns about gut health and other risks. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a hiatal hernia or strengthen the esophageal sphincter.

Several supplements — such as prebiotics, fermented soy, xylitol-malic acid tablets, rose oil, and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs — have been studied for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and have shown mixed results, with some improvement in quality of life and heartburn relief. However, further research is necessary to validate these initial findings.

Diet can affect gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); though improvements are usually mild, following traditional advice such as eating smaller meals, avoiding late meals, and limiting triggers like spicy, acidic, or fatty foods can help. The low-FODMAP diet may also be beneficial.

Certain breathing exercises, particularly diaphragmatic breathing, may help increase the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter and potentially alleviate reflux. However, further research is necessary to confirm their effectiveness in reducing the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (though improvements are usually mild) and improving quality of life.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is primarily caused by the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter or increased pressure, which can result from factors like delayed stomach emptying, hiatal hernia, or visceral hypersensitivity. Risk factors include age over 50, smoking, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, obesity, low socioeconomic status, alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation, whereas H. pylori infection and stomach acidity alone are not confirmed causes.