The valve then closes and acts as a barrier to keep stomach contents from refluxing into the esophagus. When functioning properly, this valve opens when swallowing to allow passage of food from the esophagus into the stomach. The LES is a ring of muscle that surrounds the junction of the esophagus and the stomach and acts as a valve. GERD is caused by improper mechanical function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This is at least partly related to the fact that there are many other causes for these kinds of symptoms other than GERD. Many persons suffer from extra-esophageal reflux symptoms for quite some time before a causal relationship with GERD is established. People with GERD also may develop other, atypical (extraesophageal) symptoms such as hoarseness, throat-clearing, sore throat, wheezing, chronic cough, and even asthma. In some cases fluid may even reflux into the mouth. Other typical symptoms include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and regurgitation of fluid into the esophagus. This is an uncomfortable burning sensation felt in the middle of the upper abdomen and/or lower chest. The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as the back-flow of stomach contents into the esophagus causing undesirable symptoms and potentially resulting in esophageal damage. Comparing Benefits and Risks of GERD Treatments. ![]() Getting the Most Out of Your Medications.Heartburn: Nothing to do with the Heart.Diet Advice for Barrett’s Esophagus and GERD.The Prevalence and Impact of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.
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