Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that develops when stomach contents (ie, food and acid) flow back into the esophagus or mouth. It may be symptomatic or asymptomatic (silent reflux). Symptoms most commonly include heartburn, regurgitation, chronic cough, and sore throat. Development of GERD is associated with obesity. Other risk factors include cigarette smoking, NSAID use, female sex, and low socioeconomic status.

For patients presenting with typical symptoms of regurgitation or heartburn, a diagnosis of GERD can be made presumptively and treated empirically. If dysphagia, atypical chest pain, chronic cough, odynophagia, or emesis is reported, further investigation is required before empiric treatment is recommended, as an underlying motility disorder, structural abnormality, or malignancy may be present.