Acid Reflux (GERD) 

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a chronic digestive condition that causes painful heartburn and regurgitation for millions of Americans every year. It occurs when the contents of the stomach seep backward into the esophagus.

What Causes Reflux?

Normally, following a meal, a valve on your esophagus—the sphincter—closes, preventing hydrochloric acid produced in the digestive process from backing up (refluxing) into the esophagus. When reflux occurs, this valve fails to seal properly, and stomach contents flow into the throat and esophagus. This damages the esophageal lining and causes painful symptoms.


Other risk factors may worsen reflux, including:


  • Eating large meals or lying down afterward



  • Eating certain foods (spicy and fatty foods, citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic and onions)


  • Drinking certain beverages (alcohol, caffeine, carbonated liquids)


  • Smoking


  • Obesity


  • Pregnancy

Symptoms of Chronic Cough

You should contact your doctor if your cough:



  • Is accompanied by fever


  • Produces excessive phlegm


  • Includes blood


  • Fails to improve after other symptoms have disappeared


  • Interferes with daily activities or sleep


  • Causes difficulty breathing

Symptoms of Reflux (GERD)

Heartburn is the symptom most commonly associated with GERD. Also known as acid indigestion, this burning pain radiates from the stomach to the abdomen and chest and may last for up to two hours after a meal.


Heartburn is often accompanied by:


  • Regurgitation



  • Sour taste in the mouth


  • Dyspepsia (general stomach discomfort)


Other symptoms may include:


  • Belching


  • Bloating


  • Coughing


  • Wheezing


  • Hoarseness


  • Nausea


Symptoms often occur after eating, when lying down, or when bending over and are most common at night.


The most common cause of GERD is a hiatal hernia, a stomach abnormality that causes the sphincter valve and upper portion of the stomach to move above the diaphragm, allowing stomach acids to reflux more easily.

How Is Reflux Treated?

A key part of reflux treatment is avoiding triggers that cause painful heartburn and other symptoms. Avoid foods and beverages that cause negative reactions. Adjust eating habits by sticking with smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding eating too close to bedtime.


Other helpful steps include quitting smoking and asking your doctor whether medications you are taking might contribute to symptoms. If you are overweight, exercise to reduce excess pounds.



Over-the-counter antacids taken immediately after meals can help neutralize stomach acids and may prevent heartburn or relieve symptoms. In serious cases that do not respond to medical treatment, surgery may be recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is GERD?

    GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition where stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.

  • What foods commonly trigger acid reflux?

    Common triggers include spicy and fatty foods, citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic and onions, along with beverages such as alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.

  • How can I reduce reflux symptoms naturally?

    Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, don’t lie down after eating, avoid late-night meals, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.