What is Gerd - an explanation

        The Digestive System

It can seem that Acid Reflux, Heartburn and GERD are all the same.  They are --- sorta.  It's pretty simple.  This should clear up the question "What is GERD" for you.

First let's define Acid Reflux.  Acid, in this instance, is the liquid in the stomach.  Reflux is the backing up, or reversing action when the stomach contents go up the esophagus.

Heartburn is what you feel in the chest and throat, that burning sensation, often accompanied by a sour taste.

So we have Acid Reflux the action, the Heartburn the result.  OK so far?

Now, for GERD.  Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease

Disease you already understand.  By definition it is an abnormal or harmful condition.

Reflux you just learned.  That's the backing up action.

Esophageal refers to the Esophagus, which is the tube running from the mouth to the stomach, down which food and liquid travel, and where digestion begins.

Gastro refers to the stomach.

So what is GERD?  Gerd is an abnormal condition of the stomach contents backing up into the tube part of the digestive system.

See?!  Pretty simple.