GERD, or gastro esophageal reflux disease, is a relatively common symptom to the damage of the mucous lining in the esophagus. This damage is caused by acid coming up from the stomach and into the esophagus, which happens when the lower esophageal sphincter loses its function that prevents the acid from coming back up.

Treatment options for GERD include lifestyle adjustments, medical treatments and surgery. Certain foods that cause reflux in the individual should be avoided, exercise should be taken up, and eating before going to bed should be avoided.

Medications for GERD include proton-pump inhibitors, antacids and H2 receptor blockers. Though usually effective, GERD medications will likely remove the symptoms for up to a year before they come back. Surgery, on the other hand, has proven to be more effective, with a possible long term period without symptoms after the surgery.