Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition in which food or liquid contents of the stomach back up into the food pipe or esophagus. This can inflame or damage the lining of the esophagus. It's a common ailment among adults in which the first symptom is often heartburn.

At the lower end of the esophagus is a muscle (the lower esophageal sphincter or LES) that opens and closes to let food through. If weakened in some way or if the stomach is full or under increased pressure, the muscle relaxes when it isn’t supposed to and stomach contents back up (reflux) into the esophagus.

Other symptoms of GERD include: chest pain especially at night when you are lying down, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid or coughing, wheezing, hoarseness or sore throat. It's also possible to feel as if you have something stuck in your throat. You need to see your doctor if you're having these symptoms often!

What can you do to reduce the symptoms? Since some foods relax the LES and allow stomach contents to back up, avoid fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, coffee, tea, colas and alcohol. Smoking also relaxes the LES and should be avoided.

A full stomach can put pressure on the LES so try to eat eat smaller meals more often. A healthy weight reduces the risk of pressure on the abdominal area that is caused by being overweight.

Reflux occurs more readily when lying down, so eat your last meal at least three hours before going to bed and avoid bedtime snacks. It also helps to raise the head of your bed by six inches to allow gravity to help keep stomach contents where they belong.