Functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders affect millions of people of all ages. GERD is among the more common GI conditions seen by doctors. This GI disorder does not show any evidence of a physical disease and doctors base their diagnosis on a person's symptoms.

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

GERD refers to the backward flow of fluids, mainly hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes, from the stomach into the esophagus. The lining of the stomach is protected from these powerful juices, but the esophagus is not, and they cause heartburn. Gerd occurs when these materials from the stomach or small intestine repeatedly enter the esophagus. Complications can cause serious damage to the esophagus and the throat areas.

While the main symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn, the following are the most frequently reported:

Acid regurgitation
Asthma symptoms (mostly found in children)
Bad breath
Chronic sore throat
Dry cough
Erosion of the enamel of the teeth
Heartburn (acid indigestion)
Trouble swallowing

Most children under 12 years with GERD, and some adults, have GERD without heartburn.