Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is commonly known as:

1. Acid reflux or heartburn

2. Food intolerance

3. Gastric bleeding

4. Stomach ulcers

The correct answer is: Acid reflux or heartburn

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is indeed commonly referred to as acid reflux or heartburn. This terminology is used because GERD primarily manifests through symptoms that involve the backward flow of stomach contents, including acid, into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort — typically described as heartburn. This burning sensation is a hallmark symptom of the disease. The other terms listed refer to different gastrointestinal issues. Food intolerance involves adverse reactions to certain foods but does not specifically denote the reflux of gastric contents. Gastric bleeding refers to bleeding in the digestive tract, which is a separate condition often associated with ulcers or other gastrointestinal issues. Stomach ulcers are sores on the stomach lining that are distinct entities often caused by factors such as infection or prolonged use of certain medications, not necessarily linked to the reflux of acid. Thus, "acid reflux or heartburn" accurately describes GERD.