REFLUX STRIKES AGAIN An Underestimated Disease Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus. Gastric acid that touches the lining of the esophagus can cause heartburn, also known as acid indigestion. Doctors also refer to gastroesophageal reflux as: Acid indigestion Gastric reflux Regurgitation Heartburn Reflux Acid reflux Gastroesophageal reflux is a common problem that occurs when acid from the stomach frequently flows into the tube that connects the mouth and stomach's esophagus. Acid reflux can irritate the lining of the esophagus. In the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus, between the esophagus and the stomach, there is a natural barrier formed by the lower esophageal sphincter that opens to allow the passage of ingested material into the stomach and, at the same time, prevents the natural passage gastric contents into the esophagus, when this mechanism fails frequently or continuously is when this condition occurs. This barrier mechanism fails when the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter is permanently low or more frequently when the relaxation of this sphincter occurs at a time when there is no progression of ingested material through the esophagus. When this happens, all the acidic contents of the stomach irritate or injure the esophageal mucosa that is not prepared to support acidic materials like the stomach is. When you are done reading this book, you will have gained a lifetime of experience in just a few short hours. The stories are interesting to follow, and the challenging concepts have been made easy to understand. So get ready to broaden your horizons and adjust your expectations because you are in for one hell of a ride!