Advances in Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy

Esophageal and Gastric Disease

Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic symptom of mucous damage it is caused due to entry of acid from stomach into the esophagus. The esophagus is a long tube of muscle that runs from mouth to the stomach. Normally once the food is chewed, it goes from mouth to the esophagus and then into the stomach, where it is mixed with the acidic gastric juice for digestion. The esophagus and the stomach are separated by a sphincter (lower esophageal sphincter), which is a band of muscular fibers that close the valve in order to prevent the food or gastric acids from going back to the esophagus.

Diet and lifestyle choices may make acid reflux worse if you already have it:

• Smoking


• Certain foods and drinks, including chocolate and fatty or fried foods, coffee, and alcohol


• Large meals


• Eating too soon before bed


• Certain medications, including aspirin