In India, digestive issues are increasingly common, with acidity, bloating, and heartburn affecting millions every day. While most of us pop an antacid and move on, repeated acid reflux can be a sign of a more serious condition: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). But what ’ s the difference between occasional acid reflux and GERD ? And when does it require treatment for chronicacid reflux . What is Acid Reflux? Acid reflux is a common digestive issue in India, often triggered by spicy food, oily snacks, or irregular meal timings. It happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (food pipe), causing a burning sensation in the chest, commonly known as heartburn. Acid reflux is normal and can be managed with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter antacids, however, if it becomes a frequent problem, it could indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) which is a more a more serious condition than acidity treated by a GERD surgery specialist . Wh...