GERD

noun

ˈgərd 

ˌjē-ˌē-ˌär-ˈdē

: a chronic condition that is characterized by frequent episodes of acid reflux usually accompanied by heartburn and often by irritation or inflammation of the esophageal epithelium : gastroesophageal reflux disease

… an endoscopy performed for evaluation of symptoms caused by the underlying GERD.

—Stuart Jon Spechler

If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious problems over time, such as esophagitis, ulcers on the esophagus and even esophageal cancer.

—Michelle George

Examples of GERD in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pickle juice is also typically high in sugar and acidity, Sharp notes, which can impact those with acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and cause issues with blood sugar and tooth enamel. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 19 Apr. 2024

What’s more, boosting your gut motility and moving the food out quickly can also help with heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), says Dr. Ganjhu—there’s simply less time for the digestive acids to do their thing. —Lizzy Briskin, SELF, 29 Mar. 2024

Coughing a lot for long periods can also be a symptom of a health condition, such as COPD or GERD, or a respiratory tract infection. —Claire Gillespie, Health, 17 Mar. 2024

Here are some conditions for which magnesium may be particularly beneficial during pregnancy: Gastrointestinal (GI) issues: Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in pregnancy can be common. —Casey Seiden, Parents, 24 Feb. 2024

Containing oligosaccharides — known for their prebiotic gut effects and promoting good flora — antioxidant-rich Mānuka honey also aids gastric and peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, dyspepsia, GERD, Staph infections and even food poisoning. —Kate Donnelly, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024

However, Mount Sinai advises individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a hiatal hernia to avoid peppermint tea. —Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2024

However, chronic and persistent acid reflux can be a sign of GERD. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 15 Feb. 2024

Asthma, upper airway cough syndrome (known as postnasal drip), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), respiratory infections, and even allergies can cause a cough to persist. —Syeda Khaula Saad, Verywell Health, 6 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

GERD

noun

ˈgərd 

: a chronic condition that is characterized by frequent episodes of acid reflux usually accompanied by heartburn and often by irritation or inflammation of the esophageal epithelium and that when untreated may sometimes progress to difficulty in swallowing, esophageal strictures or ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, or adenocarcinoma : gastroesophageal reflux disease