The terms acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) are commonly used interchangeably but are not the same exact condition, according to the Mayo Clinic. GERD is a more severe form of acid reflux.
Significance
According to acidrefluxtreatment.org, one in 14 people in the United States experience daily acid reflux, and over 60 million Americans have reflux at least once a month.
Definition
Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. You might taste regurgitated food, have a sour taste in your mouth or experience heartburn during a flare-up of acid reflux.
Lifestyle Changes
Occasional acid reflux may be alleviated by making changes in your lifestyle, like eating smaller meals, losing weight (if you are overweight) and avoiding fatty or fried foods that cause heartburn. Alcohol and cigarettes also may exacerbate acid reflux, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Medication
Treating minor acid reflux with over-the-counter medication may also be effective. Medications typically used include antacids like Tums, H-2 receptor blockers like Tagamet HB or Pepcid AC, and proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec OTC.
Considerations
If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications are not effective and you are still experiencing symptoms or the symptoms are getting worse, talk to your doctor to see if your acid reflux is the more serious GERD.
