GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It happens when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
Common symptoms
GERD can cause heartburn, sour taste, regurgitation, chest discomfort, hoarseness, cough, throat clearing, or trouble swallowing.
Why it matters
Occasional reflux is common. GERD is more persistent and can irritate the esophagus over time. Chest pain should never be assumed to be reflux without considering heart-related causes.
GERD can overlap with sleep problems, asthma-like symptoms, and chronic cough, so the pattern of symptoms matters.