Acid Reflux Disease, or GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which liquid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. This stomach liquid has the potential to inflame the lining of the esophagus, and in some cases may damage it. The liquid usually consists of acid and pepsin produced by the stomach. In the case of Acid Reflux Disease, acid is the main killer of the regurgitated liquid. Pepsin and bile have a small role, but the acid from Acid Reflux Disease is the star of the show when it comes to damaging the esophagus. That's why it's the first word in this disease!
Acid Reflux Disease may last a lifetime and is labeled as a chronic condition. If there is damage to the esophagus, then you have two chronic conditions. Treatment for Acid Reflux Disease will help drastically, but MUST BE continued indefinitely.
Regurgitation of the stomach's liquid occurs just as much in those that do not suffer from Acid Reflux Disease as it does with those that do. However, the regurgitated liquid of those that do no suffer often contains more acid and resides in the esophagus much longer than those without Acid Reflux Disease.
Automatic bodily functions are constantly protecting itself from the effects of Acid Reflux Disease. When sitting up, regurgitated stomach liquid often flows back down into the stomach due to gravity. Also, while awake, humans repeatedly swallow, reflux or not. These swallows take regurgitated liquid back down into the pits of the stomach. The bicarbonated saliva also neutralizes this acid during the same process. These processes are important to prevent damage to the esophagus.
Not everyone is susceptible to Acid Reflux Disease. Certain conditions within one's body makes it easier for one to develop the disease. In pregnancy, rising hormone levels cause reflux when pressure in the lower esophagus is lowered and the growing fetus exherts pressure on the abdomen. Both of these would increase the risk of developing Acid Reflux Disease, especially those with diseases that weaken muscles in the esophagus. They are all prone to Acid Reflux Disease.
