What Is Gastrointestinal Disease?
5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is also known as GERD, acid reflux and, more commonly, heartburn. The latter name comes from the symptom of a burning sensation in the chest and esophagus that the condition causes. The symptom is caused by the acidity of digestive juices that escape from the stomach into the esophagus.
The juices are able to escape due to a weakened esophageal sphincter, which would otherwise keep the stomach tightly shut. Antacids are often used to treat the symptoms while other medication may be used to help limit acidity in the stomach. Surgery may be necessary in the more severe cases.
Advertisement
