1. Abnormality of the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents acid reflux from the stomach; it has lower pressure or opens more often probably due to alcohol drinking, smoking, coffee, tea, caffeinated drinks, and certain medications such as some asthma drugs
2. Abnormality of the esophagus, causing food to move down slowly or food rising back up from the stomach to remain in the esophagus longer than usual
3. Abnormality of the stomach, causing food to remain in the stomach longer than usual and increasing the chance of acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus; high-fat foods and chocolate likely to make the stomach  contract less
4. Lifestyle behaviors such as going to bed immediately after eating,  having a large meal, smoking, drinking soda or alcohol, stress
5. Obesity, increasing pressure on the stomach and causing acid reflux
6. Pregnancy; the increased hormones during pregnancy causing the esophageal sphincter to become weak and the enlarged uterus putting more pressure on the stomach"

> Major symptoms of GERD include:

1. A burning sensation in the epigastric region, in the mid-chest, usually occurring just after a meal
2. Sour or bitter taste in the mouth and throat
3. Food rising back up into the throat and mouth
4. Abdominal distension in the epigastric region.
    

> Other possible symptoms of GERD include the following:

1. Non-cardiac chest pain
2. Chronic hoarseness; change in voice
3. Persistent cough with no apparent cause
4. Difficulty swallowing; feeling a lump in the throat
5. Oral symptoms such as tooth decay and bad breath
6. Asthma unresponsive to usual medication"