1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the upper esophageal sphincter. True False
2. Gastroesophageal reflux is the return of the stomach's contents back up into the esophagus. True False
3. Pregnant women often suffer from heartburn or acid indigestion caused by GERD. True False
4. Hiatal hernia can not result in GERD. True False
5. Coughing, vomiting, straining, or sudden physical exertion can cause increased pressure in the abdomen resulting in hiatal hernia. True False
6. Foods and beverages, including chocolate, peppermint, fried or fatty foods, coffee, or alcoholic beverages, may cause reflux and heartburn. True False
7. Heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD and usually feels like a burning chest pain beginning behind the breastbone and moving upward to the neck and throat. True False
8. The burning, pressure, or pain of heartburn can last as long as 2 hours and is often worse after eating. True False
9. Lying down or bending never results in heartburn. True False
10. Many people obtain relief by standing upright or by taking an antacid that clears acid out of the esophagus. True False
11. Avoiding certain foods and decreasing the size of portions at mealtime may help control symptoms. True False
12. Antacids taken regularly can neutralize acid in the esophagus and stomach, and stop heartburn. True False
13. Long-term use of antacids has side effects, including diarrhea, altered calcium metabolism (a change in the way the body breaks down and uses calcium), and buildup of magnesium in the body. True False
14. For chronic reflux and heartburn, the doctor may prescribe medications to reduce acid in the stomach. True False
15. Antacids taken regularly can neutralize acid in the esophagus and stomach, and stop heartburn. True False
Score = Correct answers: