What are the symptoms of GERD?
The main symptom of GERD in adults is frequent heartburn, also called acid indigestion—burning-type pain in the lower part of the mid-chest, behind the breast bone, and in the mid-abdomen. Most children under 12 years with GERD,
and some adults, have GERD without heartburn. Instead, they may experience a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing.

What causes GERD?
The reason some people develop GERD is still unclear. However, research shows that in people with GERD, the LES relaxes while the rest of the esophagus is working. Anatomical abnormalities such as a hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach and the LES move above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. Normally, the people of any age and is most often a normal finding in otherwise healthy people diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the esophagus. When a hiaover age 50. Most of the time, a hiatal hernia produces no symptoms.tal hernia is present, acid reflux can occur more easily. A hiatal hernia can occur in people of any age and is most often a normal finding in otherwise healthy people diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the esophagus. When a hiaover age 50. Most of the time, a hiatal hernia produces no symptoms.

Other factors that may contribute to GERD include
• obesity
• pregnancy
• smoking
Common foods that can worsen reflux symptoms include
• citrus fruits
• chocolate
• drinks with caffeine or alcohol
• fatty and fried foods
• garlic and onions
• mint flavorings
• spicy foods
• tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza