GERD stands for Gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is an acid reflux condition where the stomach acid of an individual refluxes into the oesophagus. This spill can cause damage to the lining of the oesophagus, which could further lead to a host of
health complications if not treated, such as throat cancer. This is why it is so important to spread awareness about this disease, for which GERD Awareness Week takes place every week between the 17 th and 23th of November. Heartburns are quite common among people suffering from GERD, which often lasts for a couple of hours. It is a burning sensation that people feel in their lower chest area, especially after having a spicy meal. But when an individual faces an acid reflux more than 2 times a week, they might be suffering from GERD.

Most common symptoms of GERD include:
- Dry cough
- Burning sensation while burping
- Bad breath
- Feeling of getting choked
- Having trouble swallowing
- Irritation in the throat
- Getting a sour taste of acid while lying down
- Sore throat

Effective ways to prevent GERD:
Maintain a low-carb diet
Some carbs remain undigested which causes bacterial overgrowth. This could lead to an increase in the pressure of the abdomen resulting in an acid reflux. This is why it is advised to stick to a low-carb diet.

Keep a check on the medications you are taking
Certain medications have been known to increase the risk of GERD. These include sedatives, iron tablets, calcium channel blockers, anticholinergics, potassium, bisphosphonates, and certain medicines for asthma.

Reduce your intake of carbonated drinks
Carbonated drinks are a known cause of an increase in acid reflux. This is why it is considered best to avoid such drinks, especially for those who are suffering from GERD.

The goal of GERD Awareness Week is to educate everyone about the dangers of GERD and its link to throat cancer. If anyone seems to be experiencing frequent GERD symptoms, it is very important to seek immediate medical assistance and do
not delay getting treatment.