At the doorway to the stomach may be a valve, a hoop of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Normally, the LES closes as soon as food passes through it. If the LES doesn't close completely or if it opens too often, the acid produced by the stomach can travel up the esophagus. this may cause symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest called heartburn. If acid reflux symptoms occur quite twice every week, you will be suffering from acid reflux, also mentioned as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What causes acid reflux disease?

A common cause of acid reflux is an abnormality in the stomach called a hiatal hernia. This happens when the upper stomach and LES subside the diaphragm, a muscle that separates your stomach from your chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps keep acid in our stomach. But once you've got a hiatal hernia, acid can rise into your esophagus and cause acid reflux symptoms. These are other common risk factors for acid reflux disease:

• Eat large meals or lie immediately after a meal
• Being overweight or obese
• Eat a crucial meal and lie on your back or bend over at the waist
• Have a snack before bedtime
• Eat certain foods, like citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy or fatty foods
• Drink certain beverages, like alcohol, soda, coffee, or tea
• To smoke
• Pregnant
• Taking aspirin, ibuprofen, some muscle relaxants, or,  sign medications

What are the symptoms of acid reflux disease?

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Heartburn: a burning pain or discomfort which can travel from the stomach to the abdomen or chest or even to the throat
• Regurgitation: A sour or bitter-tasting acid that enters the throat or mouth
• Other symptoms of acid reflux disease include:
• bloated feeling
• Bloody or black stools or bloody vomit
• Burp
• Dysphagia: the feeling that food is getting stuck in the throat
• Hiccups that don't stop
• Nausea
• Weight loss for no known reason

Wheezing, dry cough, hoarseness, or chronic pharyngitis

Can acid reflux disease be treated with diet and lifestyle changes?

One of the most effective ways to treat acid reflux disease is to avoid foods and drinks that trigger symptoms. Here are other steps you'll take:

• Eat smaller meals more often throughout the day and regulate the type of food you eat.
• Stop smoking. Place blocks under the highest of your bed to raise it at least 4 inches to 6 inches.
• Eat at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
• Try sleeping in a chair during the day.
• Do not wear tight clothing or tight belts.
• If you're overweight or obese, take steps to scale back by exercising and changing your diet. Also, ask your doctor if any medications could be causing heartburn or other symptoms of acid reflux disease.