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Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition in which gastric contents flow back up into the esophagus.

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by Cleveland Clinic
Various lifestyle and dietary factors can contribute to heartburn by: increasing the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing it to open; increasing the amount of acid in the stomach; increasing stomach pressure; or by making the esophagus more sensitive to harsh acids. These factors include the following: Eating and dietary habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods such ... See More Answers »
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
When you swallow, food passes down your throat and through your esophagus to your stomach. A muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter controls the opening between the esophagus and the stomach, and remains tightly closed except when you swallow food. When this muscle fails to close, the acid-containing contents of the stomach can travel back up into the esophagus. This backward movement is cal... See More Answers »
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
Several factors might explain why this reflux action occurs and might offer some clues for relief. The most important are the following: The position of your body after eating (An upright posture helps prevent reflux.) The size of the meal (Smaller meals reduce reflux.) The nature of foods you consume (Certain substances that irritate the esophagus or weaken the sphincter can cause reflux.)
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
To treat GERD, we recommend the following: Raise the head of your bed by six inches to allow gravity to help keep the stomach's contents in the stomach. (Do not use piles of pillows because this puts your body into a bent position that actually aggravates the condition by increasing pressure on the abdomen.) Eat meals at least three to four hours before lying down, and avoid bedtime snacks. Ea... See More Answers »
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
Many people will get relief from heartburn and the pressure accompanying esophageal reflux by following the above recommendations. Over-the-counter liquid antacids are also helpful in treating occasional heartburn. If your symptoms persist, do not respond to treatment, or occur frequently, you need to see a doctor for testing and treatment. A visual examination of the esophagus, known as an endos... See More Answers »
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
Esophageal reflux is a condition in which stomach acid refluxes or moves back into the esophagus (the "food pipe" leading from the mouth to the stomach).
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
An esophageal pH test measures and records the pH in your esophagus to determine if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The test can also be done to determine the effectiveness of medications or surgical treatment for GERD.
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
Many people will get relief from heartburn and the pressure accompanying esophageal reflux by following the above recommendations. Over-the-counter liquid antacids are also helpful in treating occasional heartburn. If your symptoms persist, do not respond to treatment, or occur frequently, you need to see a doctor for testing and treatment. A visual examination of the esophagus, known as an endos... See More Answers »
1 Expert Answer
Most Recent Answer
by Cleveland Clinic
A specialized muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter is located where the esophagus meets the stomach. This sphincter opens to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach and then closes. When the sphincter does not close tightly, food particles, stomach acid and other digestive juices can splash back up into the esophagus. When this happens, the condition is called gastroesophageal reflu... See More Answers »
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