Gastro esophageal reflux disease is termed as GERD. It is commonly referred to as acidity i.e when there is a backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus — the tube that connects the throat and stomach. The common symptoms of GERD are heartburn (a burning sensation along the tract), regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting and chest pain — especially while lying down at night.

All conditions or situations which increase acid secretion should be avoided as much as possible. Thus it’s important that you avoid spicy and fried foodstuffs. Incorporate lifestyle changes like maintaining a routine for meals and sleep, reduce stress, lose excess weight, avoid alcohol and smoking. If this alone does not help, medicines may be prescribed by the doctor like antacids, such as Digene or Gelusil along with H-2-receptor blockers, such as cimetidine or famotidine or Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole.