GERD, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when a muscle at the end of your esophagus does not close properly.
Since the esophagus is like a hose that connects your mouth and your stomach, if the end connected to your stomach is left slightly open and leaking you will have symptoms of acid indigestion. These can include typical feelings of "heartburn" like burning in the chest or throat, or tasting stomach fluid in your mouth. GERD is considered a possible diagnosis if you have these symptoms greater than two times in a week. GERD can occur in people of all ages. Sometimes babies, toddlers, and children experience it too.
If GERD is suspected, you should seek care because having this condition for extended periods of time can lead to other more serious conditions. There are many options for people with GERD that seek out a practitioner of complementary, alternative, integrative, or conventional medicine for assistance and care.