A Closer Look at Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal is a medical term referring to the stomach as well as the esophagus. Reflux refers to flowing back or returning. With that in mind, GERD refers to the contents of the stomach returning or flowing back into the esophagus. Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter or LES closes and keeps the stomach’s contents inside but there are cases where it opens inappropriately and the contents may shoot back up, causing a burning sensation, coughing, and others. It is actually a very common disease and it is a precursor to other gastroesophageal concerns. Continue reading