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Causes of GERDGERD stands for GastroEsophageal Reflux DiseaseGastroesophageal reflux is the backflow of acid and food particles that seep out of the stomach 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. Also, a hiatal hernia may contribute. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach is above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. The diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from coming up into the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, it is easier for the acid to come up. In this way, a hiatal hernia can cause reflux. A hiatal hernia can happen in people of any age; many otherwise healthy people over 50 have a small one. Other Factors That May Cause GERD Some people are born with a naturally weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES). For others, however, certain lifestyles, medications, activities or food choices may be the contributing factor.
Glossary For This Page Esophagus Pronounced - eh-SAW-fuh-gus Also spelled oesophagus. The organ that connects the mouth to the stomach. Also called gullet or food pipe. Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) Pronounced - LOH-wur uh-saw-fuh-JEE-ul SFEENK-tur The muscle between the esophagus and stomach. When a person swallows, this muscle relaxes to let food pass from the esophagus to the stomach. It stays closed at other times to keep stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. Hiatal Hernia Pronounced - hy-AY-tul HUR-nee-uh A small opening in the diaphragm that allows the upper part of the stomach to move up into the chest. Causes heartburn from stomach acid flowing back up through the opening. See also Diaphragm. Diaphragm Pronounced - DY-uh-fram The muscle wall between the chest and the abdomen. It is the major muscle that the body uses for breathing. Barrett's Esophagus Pronounced - BAH-ruts eh-SAW-fuh-gus) A condition in which the cells lining the lower part of the esophagus have changed or been replaced with abnormal cells that could lead to cancer of the esophagus. The backing up of stomach contents (reflux) may irritate the esophagus and, over time, cause Barrett's esophagus. |
Aciphex - Rabeprazole Prevacid - Lansoprazole Prilosec - Omeprazole Prilosec OCT Protonix - Pantoprazole
Causes of GERD Diet for GERD Infant GERD Children 1 - 11 Years Old Medication for GERD Symptoms of GERD GERD Surgery GERD Treatment
Causes of Heartburn Symptoms of Heartburn Heartburn Medications Heartburn Remedy
Lump In Throat Proton Pump Inhibitors Remedies for GERD
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