Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) includes reflux esophagitis and non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), with the main difference being the diagnostic criteria. GERD is a disease in which the reflux of gastroduodenal contents into the esophagus causes uncomfortable symptoms and/or complications. 1. The diagnostic criteria for GERD are the typical symptoms of reflux, heartburn and gastroscopic manifestations of varying degrees of esophageal mucosal breakdown. 2. The diagnostic criteria for GERD include not only the typical manifestations of reflux and heartburn, but also gastroscopic reflux that is negative or without typical acid reflux and heartburn, 24-hour esophageal PH monitoring that indicates the presence of excessively alkaline or excessively acidic reflux in the esophagus, and confirmation that proton pump inhibitor therapy is effective. Both GERD and GERD have a tendency to recur chronically, and both may be complicated by complications such as esophageal stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, long-term standardized treatment should be adhered to after diagnosis of the disease to help control symptoms, reduce recurrence and prevent complications.