Many people may experience acid reflux, indigestion, or heartburn from time to time. However, if you experience acid reflux symptoms more than twice per week, you may have gastroesophageal... Gastroesophageal reflux disease happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and causes heartburn. It's often called GERD for short. This backwash is known as acid reflux, and it can irritate the lining of the esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux now and then. Learn about acid reflux and GERD, chronic conditions that occur when stomach acid flows backward into your esophagus. Find out the common causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for acid reflux and GERD. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a long-term condition in which acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. It can lead to heartburn and other symptoms.