Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD are often terms that are used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. There is more than one difference between acid reflux and GERD.
Here is how they differ.
Definitions
It is important to understand what each term means to know the difference between acid reflux and GERD. Acid reflux is when the weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is unable to tighten properly causing the stomach acid to move to the esophagus. Normally, the LES is responsible for causing the esophagus to tighten after the food goes to the stomach. GERD, on the other hand, is when acid reflux is severe. That is, one has GERD if acid reflux occurs two times or more in a week. Acid reflux and GERD can both lead to heartburn, which is another term that is often used interchangeably with the former two but means something different.
Symptoms
The symptoms of each can help you understand the difference between acid reflux and GERD even more clearly.
Symptoms Of Acid Reflux
- Heartburn
- Sore throat
- Bloating
- Dysphagia
- Nausea
- Burping
- Wheezing
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Burning sensation and pressure
- Unexplained weight loss
- Hiccups that won’t go away easily
- Bitter taste in the back of the throat
Symptoms Of GERD
- Heartburn
- Asthma
- Inability to swallow
- Bad breath
- Pain in the chest
- Tooth enamel damage
- Dry cough that is persistent
- Feeling of regurgitation
Heartburn is the common symptom in both and it is characterized by a burning feeling near the chest area. It generally occurs behind the breastbone but can quickly get to the throat and neck. The feeling of pressure of the burning sensation associated with heartburn can last for 2 hours. If one eats, it can worsen the pain.
Causes
Knowing what causes acid reflux and GERD can help you understand the difference between acid reflux and GERD. Both can be caused due to hiatal hernia which is an abnormality of the stomach. The common causes of acid reflux and GERD are obesity, pregnancy, and smoking cigarettes. Consuming certain foods and beverages such as coffee, alcohol, peppermint, and garlic can lead to acid reflux and GERD. Acid reflux can be caused by taking blood pressure medications and muscle relaxants too. Other causes of acid reflux include eating too much food in a single meal then lying down soon after and snacking when it is time to go to bed.
Treatments
Since acid reflux progresses to GERD, the biggest difference between acid reflux and GERD is that GERD is the more serious reflux time. Occasional acid reflux can be treated with some lifestyle changes. The doctor can suggest over-the-counter medication for treating acid reflux such as h-2 receptor blockers, foaming agents, prokinetics, and proton pump inhibitors. When a person has GERD, the doctor can prescribe medications that can help them get relief from symptoms. Sometimes, surgery might be required if a person has GERD. If one has a tough time breathing or swallowing, it might mean that they need emergency care.