GERD, also known as chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition where the acid-containing contents of your stomach frequently leak back up into your oesophagus. The lower oesophagal sphincter, a valve at the end of the oesophagus, malfunctions when food enters the stomach, causing acid reflux. You then experience acid backwash, which causes a sour taste in your mouth and throat after it travels back up your oesophagus. Nearly everyone experiences acid reflux. However, if you experience acid reflux or heartburn more than twice per week over a period of several weeks, regularly take antacids and heartburn medications, and still experience recurrent symptoms, you may have GERD.
By asking you about your symptoms and medical background, our gastroenterologists can typically determine whether you have basic acid reflux (not chronic). You can discuss treating your symptoms with our doctor using food and medication. The Gastroenterology Centre at Khalsa offers complete liver and digestive system care. Our skilled gastroenterologists, hepatologists, and gastrointestinal surgeons diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of acute, chronic, and life-threatening conditions affecting the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and biliary system.