Get Help for GERD

The most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is recurrent or persistent heartburn, but other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing and nausea. When left untreated, GERD can cause serious damage to your digestive and respiratory organs, so use our four-step action plan to find relief and take control of your condition now.

Assess your condition
Ask yourself these questions to see whether you may be suffering from GERD, and find out what to expect during an initial exam with your doctor.

Why do you have heartburn?
Take a quiz to see if your habits or lifestyle could be contributing to this uncomfortable symptom.

Understand what causes GERD
Learn the difference between a "healthy" esophagus and one that is susceptible to GERD.

Be prepared for your doctor visit
Know what to ask before the visit!

Alter your daily habits
Take these simple steps to reduce acid reflux -- the regurgitation of stomach acid into the throat.

Eat the right foods
GERD symptoms can be worsened by large meals and specific foods, such as chocolate, peppermint, citrus and fatty foods. Discover how changing your diet can bring some relief.

Avoid certain activities
Learn what movements may be triggering your irritating and painful GERD symptoms.

Find the right medication
Get information about over-the-counter therapies and more powerful prescription drugs.

Try an herbal remedy
Learn how licorice and other anti-spasmodic herbs can relieve pain in the gastrointestinal tract.

Do you need surgery?
Your doctor might suggest surgery when medication and lifestyle changes have failed to relieve your symptoms.

Talk to others about heartburn and GERD
Share advice and concerns with women dealing with this problem.