Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

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Risk Factors and Causes

GERD results from a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter—the circular muscle between the esophagus and stomach that opens and closes when food or liquid is swallowed. If this muscle weakens or does not work properly, acid or bile from the stomach can move back into the esophagus (reflux). When this occurs often, damage to the esophagus can result in GERD


Common risk factors for GERD include the following:

Obesity—Extra weight causes extra pre...Read the full article