What is Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) occurs when the natural protective mechanism in the lower oesophagus starts to deteriorate. Often this is because the muscle in the lower oesophagus, known as the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LOS) fails. When this sphincter fails, the stomach acid leaks back up into the oesophagus, known as acid reflux. The oesophagus is the tube that runs from your throat to your stomach and when it becomes very inflamed this painful condition is known as Oesophagitis. GORD is a common and chronic condition. It is estimated that 10-20% of the population suffer with this condition at least once a week and it is the most common cause for indigestion and heartburn.
