Acid Reflux Disease

Acid Reflux Disease or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly referred to as GERD is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up, or refluxes) into the esophagus.

Acid Reflux Disease is a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. If there is injury to the lining of the esophagus (esophagitis), this also is a chronic condition. Moreover, after the esophagus has healed with treatment and treatment is stopped, the injury will return in most patients within a few months. Once treatment for Acid Reflux Disease is begun, therefore, it usually will need to be continued indefinitely.

Actually, the reflux of the stomach's liquid contents into the esophagus occurs in most normal individuals. In fact, one study found that reflux occurs as frequently in normal individuals as in patients with Acid Reflux Disease. In patients with Acid Reflux Disease, however, the refluxed liquid contains acid more often, and the acid remains in the esophagus longer.

Acid Reflux Disease can be a serious problem during pregnancy. The elevated hormone levels of pregnancy probably cause reflux by lowering the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter. At the same time, the growing fetus increases the pressure in the abdomen. Both of these effects would be expected to increase reflux. Also, patients with diseases that weaken the esophageal muscles, such as scleroderma or mixed connective tissue diseases, are more prone to develop Acid Reflux Disease.