Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disease. GERD occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, stomach content, flows back into your food pipe (esophagus). The backwash (Reflux) irritates the lining of your esophagus and causes GERD. Both acid reflux and heartburn are common digestive conditions that many people experience from time to time. When you swallow, the lower esophageal sphincter — a circular band of muscle around the bottom part of your esophagus — relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. Then it closes again. Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the upper portion of your small intestine. If GERD and Esophagitis symptoms aren’t brought under control, your stomach acid may continue to further damage your esophagus.
