**1. Introduction**

Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) is one of the most prevalent digestive disorders in the United States and affects almost 28% of the American population [1, 2]. GERD is a chronic condition that occurs when acid flows from the stomach back up into the esophagus, which causes the upper digestive tract mucosal lining to become irritated [3]. There are many common causes of GERD, including alcohol, obesity, spicy foods, medications, hiatal hernias, and pregnancy [4]. Heartburn, one of the most common symptoms of GERD, is a form of indigestion that typically produces a burning sensation in the chest region due to acid reflux [2]. Other less common symptoms of GERD include frequent burping, pain upon swallowing, a sore or hoarse throat, cough, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and asthma. GERD can lead to serious long-term complications such as Barrett's esophagus, erosive esophagitis, or esophageal cancer if left untreated, which makes treating the condition important [5]. Once patients have an established clinical diagnosis of GERD, treatment options include medications, lifestyle modifications, and surgery. Therapy goals include eliminating symptoms, managing and preventing complications, and maintaining remission [6]. Lifestyle modifications are an essential treatment component, including dietary changes such as decreasing consumption of fatty and spicy foods

and reducing caffeine intake. Others include exercising, reducing weight, avoiding smoking, and head elevation while resting or sleeping [7]. Acid-suppressive therapy (AST), such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine two receptor antagonists (H2RA), and antacids, are the cornerstone of treatment for GERD. Since GERD is a chronic disease, lifelong treatment is typically necessary to reduce symptoms and prevent long-term complications [8].
