Acid Reflux is the commonly used name for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). It is a condition that millions of people all over the world suffer from, especially the main symptoms of heartburn. In this article we're going to look here at the basic medical background to GERD.

At the lower end of your esophagus is a muscular ring, known as the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter). The LES is designed to act as a one-way valve, to ensure that acidic stomach contents do not backwash or 'reflux' from the stomach into the esophagus. However, many people have an abnormally relaxed LES, and this is when the acidic gastric juices can reach the esophagus.

These acids are produced in the stomach to help break down food for digestion. So, you might wonder why the stomach is not at risk from these acids. Well, the stomach cells that make up the stomach lining create mucus which is able to provide protection from the acid. Unfortunately for sufferers of acid reflux, the esophagus does not do this and instead has a very tender lining. This means that any acid that reaches the esophagus will cause a very painful, burning sensation.

In the following articles we will take a deeper look at acid reflux:

Acid Reflux Causes A look at the main causes of acid reflux such as diet, lifestyle and other factors you may not even have considered before.

Acid Reflux Symptoms The painful and unpleasant sensation in the chest and esophagus known as heartburn is the most common and well-known symptom of acid reflux. However, there are several other symptoms which we will discuss here also.

Acid Reflux Treatment There are many different treatment options available for acid reflux and heartburn. Some people prefer to go with medications while other try to gain relief naturally. Surgey is an effective but last-resort option.

Acid Reflux Diet Making positive dietary changes can be beneficial in countless ways including relief from acid reflux and heartburn. Here we will look at what foods to eat and those to avoid.

Natural Remedies Many of the millions of acid reflux and heartburn sufferers are turning to natural remedies in an attempt to gain relief without the side-effects of medication. Here we will look at some of the most popular acid reflux natural remedies.

More acid reflux articles:

• How To Deal With Acid Reflux In Infants
• Acid Reflux In Children - How Serious A Problem Is It?
• Dealing With Acid Reflux In Pregnancy
• Know The Basics Of Acid Reflux Disease

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