Gastroesophageal Reflux is the backflow of acid and food particles that seep out of the belly and up into the esophagus. This happens when the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is weak or relaxes when it shouldn't. Also called esophageal reflux or reflux esophagitis.
Almost every person experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time, commonly known as heartburn, a painful, burning feeling in the chest, much commonly occurring after a meal. But if you have heartburn on a regular basis, it can lead to damage and scarring in the esophagus.
Frequent heartburn (episodes occurring from several times a week to several times a day) may be connected with a more severe restriction known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Heartburn is so common that it often is not connected with a serious disease, like GERD.People of all ages are vulnerable to GERD. GERD may be more common in adults over age 40 but it can occur in infants, in the elderly, and at any age in between. Elderly people with GERD tend to have a more serious fitness than younger people.
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From : everydayhealth.com , nexiumresearch.com
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