---
title: "Acid Reflux Disease | Sutter Health"
description: "Acid reflux disease, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a very common condition in South Asians. Acid reflux occurs when the acid in the stomach flows backward into the esophagus, or swallowing tube."
url: "https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/acid-reflux-disease"
---

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# Acid Reflux Disease

* * *

September 27, 2024

Acid reflux disease, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a very common condition in South Asians. Acid reflux occurs when the acid in the stomach flows backward into the esophagus, or swallowing tube.

## Symptoms

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

-   Heartburn (burning pain behind the breastbone)
-   Sour taste in the back of the mouth
-   Less common symptoms that may also be signs of acid reflux include:Non-burning chest pain
-   Stomach pain (upper part of abdomen)
-   Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
-   Persistent cough
-   New onset asthma or asthma only at night
-   Nausea

The following alarm symptoms may indicate more serious disease, which warrants immediate medical attention:

-   Difficulty swallowing
-   Choking sensation
-   Painful swallowing
-   Vomiting
-   Bleeding (vomiting blood or passing dark-colored stools)
-   Unexpected weight loss
-   Decreased appetite
-   Chest pain

## Common Causes

Many of the following major risk factors for acid reflux are typical of a South Asian lifestyle:

-   Heavy late-night meals
-   Spicy foods
-   Fried foods and other foods rich in saturated fats
-   Caffeine intake, especially late in the day (such as afternoon tea)
-   Being overweight, especially around the stomach

Pregnancy also increases one's risk of experiencing acid reflux.

## Treatment

The following lifestyle changes are important for managing acid reflux:

-   Eat dinner earlier, at least three to four hours before going to bed
-   Prepare lighter dinners, with less spice and less fat
-   Eliminate caffeinated drinks, especially after 12:00 pm
-   Eat smaller meals to avoid overfilling the stomach
-   Restrict alcohol use
-   Quit smoking
-   Lose excess weight

In addition to the above items, there are over-the-counter acid blockers and other medications that can help. Discuss these options with your physician.

**Last Reviewed**: 2012

## Explore related topics

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