To understand the difference between acid reflux and GERD, it is important to understand how they are linked. Differentiating between an acid reflux, GERD, and a heartburn can be difficult since all three can have similar symptoms. But knowing the difference is extremely important to get the correct and timely treatment.

So, here we help you understand the difference between acid reflux and GERD.

What is acid reflux and GERD?
Acid reflux and GERD are related. Therefore, the terms are used interchangeably. But that does not mean that they refer to the same condition. Gastroesophageal reflux, commonly known as acid reflux, is a condition in which the stomach acid flows backward to the esophagus. Acid reflux commonly causes a burning sensation in the chest which is known as heartburn.

When this acid reflux progresses and takes a more severe form, it is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

Difference between acid reflux and GERD symptoms
The common symptoms to identify acid reflux include the following:

• Heartburn : This is a burning sensation that can move from the stomach to the chest or to the abdominal area. It can also sometimes move up to the throat.
• A sour acid flowing back to the throat or to the mouth, which is known as regurgitation.
• Black or bloody stools
• Blood with vomit
• Bloating
• A feeling of having food stuck in the throat, which is known as dysphagia
• Nausea
• Loss in body weight that cannot be explained
• Persistent hiccups
• Dry cough
• Wheezing
• Sore throat that becomes chronic
• Hoarseness

There are several symptoms of acid reflux that are also experienced by GERD patients. The common symptoms of GERD include:

• Feeling of a burning sensation or heartburn in the chest. This is usually experienced after having a meal and it can get worse at night
• Pain in the chest
• Problems with swallowing food
• Food or a bitter-tasting liquid flowing back to the throat or the mouth
• Feeling like a lump is stuck in the throat

If the symptoms are occurring at night, they can include the following:

• Cough that is chronic
• Laryngitis
• Occurrence or worsening of asthma
• Problems with sleep

Difference between acid reflux and GERD: Causes
Among the primary cause of acid reflux is a condition that involves the stomach; it is known as hiatal hernia. This condition is a result of the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter moving above the diaphragm, which is the muscle that keeps the stomach and the chest separated. It is the responsibility of the diaphragm to hold the stomach acid in its place. But when a person has hiatal hernia, the acid starts to move and reaches the esophagus and causes acid reflux.

The cause of GERD is frequent episodes of acid reflux. When there is a regular backward movement of the stomach acid, it causes irritation on the esophagus lining and results in inflammation.