When you start feeling a burning sensation in your chest that irritates you and sometimes causes great discomfort, you want to evaluate it to see if you have become a victim of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or just experiencing a simple bout of heartburn.

Almost everyone encounters heartburn at least once in his or her life. Maybe it was that spicy meal they ate too late at night, or the fact that they are carrying twins and are in the late stages of pregnancy.

But for some, the burn never eases, and what was originally thought to be heartburn is turned into a disease that can wreak havoc on your life - emotionally and physically, causing sleep deprivation and misery on a daily basis.

Sometimes an over-the-counter medication can remedy the problem, but if it continues, you may need stronger solutions to battle your GERD symptoms. One of the biggest determinants in finding out if you have heartburn or GERD is the frequency of your symptoms.

If it is chronic, then it is more serious than an occasional case of indigestion. GERD victims often have heartburn more than twice a week and the burning sensation lasts longer than someone not suffering from GERD.

Many who have the more serious form of this problem find it hard to swallow during the moments when they are feeling the burn in their chest. GERD is also harder to cure with ordinary medications. A simple antacid may not work for you when you need relief immediately.

While most heartburn happens at night, it can actually take place at any time of the day. But those who have GERD notice it flaring up at night when they are trying to get to sleep or stay asleep.

If you have heartburn, you want to track your symptoms not just for frequency, but also for severity. What triggered the severe symptoms? You want to notice these factors before you go to a physician for a solution to your heartburn or GERD issues.

If you notice that your entire lifestyle is being altered because you fear the onset of heartburn, then it may be an indicator that you will be diagnosed with GERD and not just an occasional case of heartburn.

You do not have to let heartburn interrupt your enjoyment of life. Suffering from GERD is not necessary with the advanced treatments that are available today, ranging from medications to surgery for severe cases. Do not let heartburn rule your life. Take control of your symptoms and solutions by finding a cure that works best for you.