Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Written by Harsha Moole, MD. Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Acid Reflux?
A gastroenterologist (a doctor who treats digestive system problems) diagnoses and treats GERD. Your primary care doctor can often start care first. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux, happens when stomach contents leak backward into your esophagus (the food pipe). A ring of muscle at the end of the esophagus normally keeps food down. When it does not close all the way, stomach contents can leak back up. Harsh stomach acid can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn.
Doctors call it GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) when this reflux irritates the food pipe and causes symptoms. GERD can sometimes cause serious problems. These include:
- Esophagitis, irritation or ulcers in the esophagus.
- Esophageal stricture means the esophagus narrows from scarring.
- Barrett's esophagus, a change in the lining of the esophagus that can raise the risk of cancer.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms are:
- Heartburn, a painful, burning feeling in the middle of your chest, behind your breastbone. It rises from the lower tip of your breastbone toward your throat.
- Regurgitation, when stomach contents come back up into your throat or mouth. You may taste food or stomach acid.
Not all adults with GERD have heartburn or regurgitation. Other symptoms may include chest pain, nausea, problems swallowing or pain while swallowing, and chronic cough or hoarseness. Less common symptoms are hiccups, sore throat, and wheezing. Symptoms may get worse when you bend over or lie down, or at night.
Causes and who gets it
GERD may develop if a ring of muscle at the end of the esophagus gets weak. Doctors call it the lower esophageal sphincter. Sometimes it relaxes when it should not. You are more likely to have GERD if you are overweight or have obesity, or if you are pregnant. Some medicines raise the risk. So does smoking or secondhand smoke. Lying down within 3 hours after eating also raises your risk.
Some medicines can cause GERD or make it worse. Examples are NSAIDs (common pain medicines), some blood pressure and asthma medicines, sedatives (medicines that make you sleepy), and some antidepressants. A hiatal hernia can also raise your chance of GERD. With a hiatal hernia, part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle between the chest and belly.
How doctors diagnose it
You may not need tests if symptoms are mild. If symptoms are severe or come back after treatment, your doctor may recommend an upper endoscopy. It examines the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine with a small camera on a flexible tube. Other tests measure how often stomach acid enters the esophagus or the pressure inside the lower esophagus (esophageal manometry).
Treatment
Lifestyle changes may reduce symptoms. Your doctor may recommend losing weight if you are overweight, raising your head during sleep with a foam wedge or extra pillows, and quitting smoking. Have dinner 2 to 3 hours before sleep. Avoid foods that cause your symptoms.
Antacids can relieve mild heartburn. But they can cause diarrhea or constipation. Do not use them daily or for severe symptoms without talking with your doctor. H2 blockers lower stomach acid and can help heal the esophagus. PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) work better and heal the esophageal lining in most people with GERD. PPI side effects are not common. They may include headache, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Taking PPIs may raise the chance of a C. diff infection (a gut infection).
Surgery is an option when symptoms do not improve. Fundoplication is the most common surgery for GERD. The surgeon sews the top of your stomach around the end of the esophagus. This adds pressure to the sphincter. Complications from surgery are more likely than from medicines.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you think you have GERD, or if your symptoms do not get better with over-the-counter medicines or lifestyle changes. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have chest pain, vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, or pass stool with blood or that looks black and tarry. Trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss also needs prompt care.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. This doctor can review your symptoms and medicines and suggest lifestyle changes. They can start care for mild symptoms and refer you for tests if needed.
Common questions
Is acid reflux the same as GERD?
Not exactly. They are closely related. Acid reflux happens when stomach contents leak backward into your esophagus. Doctors call it GERD when that reflux irritates the food pipe and causes heartburn and other symptoms.
What lifestyle changes help with reflux?
Losing weight if you are overweight, raising the head of the bed, and not lying down within 3 hours after eating can help. Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and foods that cause your symptoms may also help.
When is surgery used for GERD?
Your doctor may recommend surgery if symptoms do not improve with lifestyle changes and medicines. Fundoplication is the most common surgery for GERD. Complications from surgery are more likely than from medicines.
Can GERD cause problems outside the esophagus?
Yes. GERD can lead to worsening asthma, bronchospasm (irritation and spasm of the airways), chronic cough or hoarseness, and dental problems.
Sources
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Symptoms and Causes of GER and GERD
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Treatment for GER and GERD
- MedlinePlus - Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
