If you live in Houston and you’ve ever felt that burning sensation in your chest after a big spicy Tex-Mex meal, you’re not alone. Millions struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At its core, GERD involves stomach acid—but what exactly is that acid doing? In this article, we’ll explain how stomach acid contributes to GERD symptoms. We’ll also explore the role of low vs high stomach acid in acid reflux, answer the question “can too little stomach acid cause GERD?”, and dig into what causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. Finally, we’ll look at the link between stomach acid levels and heartburn. Dr. Bharat Pothuri at our Houston clinic shares his insights along the way.
By the end, you’ll have practical tips on managing GERD, plus a clear FAQ section. Let’s get started!
Stomach acid, also called gastric acid, is a mix of hydrochloric acid (HCl), digestive enzymes, and water. Its main jobs are to:
Dr. Bharat Pothuri explains: “Stomach acid is like your body’s natural sanitizer and food processor. Without enough acid, you can’t absorb nutrients well. But too much or misdirected acid can irritate your esophagus.”
GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It happens when the LES weakens or relaxes at the wrong time. This lets stomach acid travel back—or reflux—into the esophagus. Over time, that acid can inflame or damage the esophageal lining.
According to the Mayo Clinic on GERD, roughly 20% of adults in the U.S. experience GERD weekly.
Stomach acid itself isn’t “bad.” It’s needed for digestion. But when it escapes into the esophagus, it can:
Dr. Bharat Pothuri notes, “The backflow of acid is what creates that familiar burning feeling. Each episode can make the esophagus more sensitive over time.”
Why is the esophagus vulnerable? Unlike the stomach, the esophagus has no protective mucus layer. Repeated exposure to acid results in:
Many assume acid reflux is caused by too much stomach acid. But research shows both ends of the spectrum—too much and too little acid—can cause reflux symptoms.
Dr. Pothuri says, “In Houston, I see two types of reflux patients—those with true hyperacidity and those whose bodies under-produce acid. Both can end up with similar symptoms.”
A small NIH study found that low acid production can contribute to GERD by disrupting normal stomach emptying. If you suspect low acid, ask your Houston physician about a Heidelberg pH test or a trial of betaine HCl supplementation under supervision.
“If you eat late at night or recline on the couch after a big enchilada dinner, you give gravity a break,” warns Dr. Pothuri. “That makes it easier for acid to travel north.”
Heartburn is the main symptom patients describe, but acid levels play a nuanced role.
A survey by the WebMD GERD Center found that up to 65% of GERD sufferers report heartburn at least once a week. Adjusting acid levels—whether by diet or medication—can dramatically reduce these episodes.
| Feature | Low Stomach Acid | High Stomach Acid |
| Acid pH | Higher pH (above 3.5) | Lower pH (1.5–3.5) |
| Common Symptoms | Bloating, gas, fullness, mild heartburn | Sharp burning, regurgitation, ulcers |
| Stomach Pressure | Increased due to delayed emptying | Varied; can be normal but acid strong |
| LES Response | Opens to relieve pressure | Opens due to direct irritation |
| Typical Triggers | Large meals, low-protein diets | Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol |
| Diagnostic Tests | Heidelberg pH test, betaine HCl trial | Endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring |
| Treatment Focus | Improve acid production, prokinetics | Acid blockers (PPIs, H2 blockers), antacids |
Living in Houston means enjoying bold flavors—and sometimes facing more reflux triggers. Here are friendly, practical steps from Gastrodoxs:
“Houston’s busy lifestyle often pushes us to skip meals or eat late,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Small changes—like a 15-minute walk after dinner—can lower reflux episodes substantially.”
Your Houston gastroenterologist can recommend tests like endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, or manometry to pinpoint the issue.
Stomach acid plays a central role in both causing and relieving GERD. Whether you have high or low acid, understanding the balance is key. At Gastrodoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri and our team are ready to guide you. Use these tips, talk to your doctor, and enjoy life without the burn. For more Houston-focused gastro care information, visit Gastrodoxs.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation.
When stomach acid reaches the esophagus, it irritates the lining, causing burning, inflammation, and sometimes chronic damage.
Yes. Low acid delays digestion, raises stomach pressure, and can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing reflux.
Weak or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, obesity, certain foods and drinks, and medications can all trigger acid reflux.
High acid directly irritates the esophagus when refluxed. Low acid causes slow digestion and increased pressure, which also leads to reflux.
Heartburn is a burning chest pain from acid exposure. High acid causes sharper pain, while low acid may cause mild, prolonged discomfort.
Talk to your doctor about the Heidelberg pH test, 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring, or a supervised betaine HCl trial.
Eat smaller meals, avoid late-night dining, elevate your bed head, maintain a healthy weight, and limit alcohol and tobacco.
If you experience trouble swallowing, persistent pain, bleeding, weight loss, or no improvement after OTC treatments, see your physician.
Yes. Ginger tea, aloe vera juice, licorice supplements (DGL), apple cider vinegar (small doses), and mindful eating can support digestion.
