What’s the Difference Between Heartburn, Acid Reflux and GERD?

It’s Taco Tuesday and you’re basking in the glow of your last fish taco when it hits — that burning sensation that rises from your stomach into the back of your throat. It’s not an unfamiliar sensation, but you’re tired of the pain ruining your favorite foods. So what gives?

There’s a strong ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter where your esophagus connects to the stomach. This muscle helps keeps food and digestive juices in the stomach where they belong. If the sphincter muscle relaxes when it shouldn’t, stomach fluids leak back up the esophagus. Stomach acids are very irritating to throat tissue, creating that familiar burning feeling.

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The Difference Between Heartburn, Acid Reflux and GERD

Though unpleasant, the occasional heartburn that can ruin your meals every now and then is common and usually not cause for concern. When it occurs more frequently, however, heartburn indicates a more serious issue, such as acid reflux disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

“Heartburn, acid reflux and GERD are related, but with some important differences,” says Dr. John Crisologo, FACG, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Beaufort Memorial Lowcountry Medical Group Specialty Care. “Acid reflux is what causes the burning feeling of heartburn. In most cases, heartburn is temporary and triggered by certain foods. Acid reflux disease causes chronic heartburn. GERD is a more severe, long-lasting form of acid reflux, and heartburn is just one of the symptoms.”

Another key difference is that GERD does not get better on its own. Left untreated, GERD can cause a variety of complications including Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

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Options to Tame the Flames

Thankfully, there are a number of effective treatments for heartburn, acid reflux disease and GERD. Lifestyle changes, such as managing weight, eating smaller portions, and avoiding triggers (usually spicy, greasy or acidic foods) can help prevent heartburn symptoms. Over-the-counter antacid medications also provide relief for occasional heartburn.

If you have heartburn more than twice a week, or over-the-counter heartburn remedies no longer provide relief, it may be time to see a doctor. Prescription medications can help block the production of stomach acid and strengthen a weakened esophageal sphincter muscle, giving the esophagus a chance to heal. In the most severe cases, gastrointestinal surgery may be needed.

Find a gastroenterologist who can help you decode stomach pain or ask your primary care provider for a referral.