Gastroesophageal reflux disease, more commonly known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach contents rise back into the esophagus, causing irritation to the esophageal lining. The stomach contents will generally consist of acid, bile, and pepsin. The acid is manufactured in the stomach to aid with the digestion of food. Bile, which may or may not be included, is created by the liver. Pepsin is an enzyme that helps to break down the proteins in the stomach contents.

The primary reason for the rise of stomach acid into the esophagus is a weakened or damaged esophageal sphincter. Its the function of the sphincter to seal off the stomach and prevent the acid from rising, similar to the way a value seals off the flow of water. When it fails, acid enters into the esophagus, and sometimes can rise all the way back to the mouth.

If this is a common occurrence, meaning it happens once or twice a week, it needs your attention.

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