Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when your stomach contents come back up into your esophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach). Stomach acid that touches the lining of your esophagus can cause heartburn, also called acid indigestion. Having GER once in a while is common.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious and long-lasting form of GER. GER that occurs more than twice a week for a few weeks could be GERD. GERD can lead to more serious health problems over time. If you think you have GERD, you should seek in-person care. You may need a procedure called an upper GI endoscopy.
