How Does Acid Reflux Affect the Esophagus?
Regurgitation Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD or simply reflux, is a condition in which liquid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. Most often, it is acid that regurgitates; however, it is possible for pepsin (an enzyme in the stomach) or bile to back up into the esophagus. Standing or sitting upright after meals can help keep the stomach contents from regurgitating. Reflux is a chronic condition that can improve with treatment but rarely disappears. Erosion The backing up of the stomach contents can begin to erode the esophagus. The extent and severity of the erosion will depend on the contents that are regurgitatied (acid is the most eroding) and the frequency with which it happens. Esophagitis is the term used for an esophagus that has damage or erosion. Saliva can help to ease the damage of the esophagus in most people, as it contains bicarbonate, a neutralizer of the acid; however, those with severe reflux will sustain damage. Proton-pump inhibitors like
