Most people have felt a burning sensation in the chest after a big meal, late-night snack, or extra-spicy dish. Occasional heartburn or acid reflux is common, and in many cases, it’s nothing to worry about. But when these symptoms start showing up more often or interfering with daily life, they may be a sign of something more serious: gastroesophageal reflux disease, better known as GERD. At her Plano, Texas, practice, gastroenterologist Dr. Sindhu Abraham, M.D., helps patients understand the difference and find relief.

Most people have felt a burning sensation in the chest after a big meal, late-night snack, or extra-spicy dish. Occasional heartburn or acid reflux is common, and in many cases, it’s nothing to worry about. But when these symptoms start showing up more often or interfering with daily life, they may be a sign of something more serious: gastroesophageal reflux disease, better known as GERD. At her Plano, Texas, practice, gastroenterologist Dr. Sindhu Abraham, M.D., helps patients understand the difference and find relief.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. This backward flow can cause heartburn, regurgitation, or a sour taste in the mouth. Many people experience it occasionally, especially after eating a large or rich meal. In these cases, simple lifestyle changes, like avoiding heavy food before bedtime, limiting trigger foods, or elevating the head while sleeping, can help ease discomfort.

What Is GERD?

GERD, on the other hand, is a chronic condition in which acid reflux happens more frequently and doesn’t improve with basic adjustments. If you’re experiencing reflux symptoms more than twice a week, or if they’re affecting your sleep and persist, it’s likely GERD rather than occasional reflux. Over time, GERD can damage the esophagus, leading to complications such as inflammation, narrowing of the esophagus, or even precancerous changes known as Barrett’s esophagus.

Key Differences Between Occasional Reflux and GERD

• Frequency: Reflux once in a while is normal. GERD involves symptoms that show up regularly.
• Severity: GERD symptoms are more intense and disruptive.
• Response to lifestyle changes: Occasional reflux usually improves with diet and habit adjustments, while GERD often needs medical treatment.
• Potential complications: GERD carries long-term risks if left untreated, while occasional reflux does not.

When to See a Gastroenterologist

It can be tough to know when reflux has crossed the line into GERD, but certain signs make it clear that it’s time to see a specialist. These include persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, chest pain unrelated to the heart, unexplained coughing or hoarseness, and frequent regurgitation. If you find yourself relying on over-the-counter medications regularly, that’s also a strong indicator that professional care is needed.

Relief and Long-Term Solutions

The good news is that GERD is highly manageable with the right treatment plan. In Plano, Texas, Dr. Abraham works closely with patients to identify triggers, recommend lifestyle changes, and prescribe medications when necessary. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be considered to help control symptoms. 

Stop Struggling with Heartburn

If you’re dealing with frequent heartburn or acid reflux that doesn’t seem to go away, you don’t have to keep pushing through it. Dr. Sindhu Abraham, M.D., in Plano, Texas, is here to help you get answers about GERD, find effective treatment, and restore your comfort.