The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to stomach. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when a muscle (sphincter) at the end of the esophagus does not close properly. This allows stomach contents to leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus and irritate it.

Symptoms of GERD include: a burning in the chest or throat called heartburn, the taste of stomach fluid in the back of the mouth, spontaneous coughing because of stomach acids in the trachea. However, people can infrequently suffer from heartburn and acid reflux. GERD sufferers experience these symptoms consistently and routinely.

Anyone, including infants and children, can have GERD. If not treated, it can lead to more serious health problems. In some cases, medicines or surgery are needed. However, many people can improve their symptoms by:

• Avoiding alcohol and spicy, fatty or acidic foods that trigger heartburn
• Eating smaller meals
• Not eating close to bedtime
• Losing weight if needed
• Wearing loose-fitting clothes
• Increasing exercise