What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

The meaning of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Heartburn or acid reflux is one of the most common health conditions known to medicine, right next to colds and conjunctivitis. Heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition wherein the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not fulfill its task of acting as a barrier between the esophagus and the stomach.

As a result, some of the acidic contents of the stomach are able to travel upwards, sometimes up to the oral cavity itself. GERD defined as gastroesophageal reflux disease is not caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. It is usually caused by lifestyle and diet issues and natural physiological changes such as pregnancy.

There are many known treatments for GERD and most of the time it is considered a benign medical condition that can easily be treated in a few weeks’ time. If you are suffering from GERD the first thing that you must do is to seek the help of your physician.

This should be done regardless of what you think you may be suffering from. Once your physician has confirmed through tests that you do have gastroesophageal reflux diseas, you can begin exploring the various remedies (natural or otherwise) that are available for GERD patients.

The one thing that you should always keep in mind is that this condition can be managed well and you should not allow it to impair your ability to function at work and at home. When you have the facts straight, GERD becomes that much easier to manage and conquer.