Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach. The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

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If you have had heartburn or any of the other symptoms for a while, you should see your doctor. You may want to visit an internist, a doctor who specializes in internal medicine, or a gastroenterologist, a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines. Depending on how severe your GERD is, treatment may involve lifestyle changes combined with medications. Depending on the severity of the condition your doctor may reccomend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. If symptomes persist a surgerical procedure called fundoplication will correct the problem.

There are many degrees of GERD and various stages of progress. Patients with persistent heartburn as a symptom should try the following lifestyle changes, First changes in diet and lifestyle can help control the disease. Patients should reduce the size of their portions and increase the frequency of their meals and keep their weight down, since being overweight overburdens the esophagus and contributes to reflux. Next patients should aviod cafeen, fried food, fatty or spicy foods, and chocolate. All of these contribute to the dialation of the esophageal valve. Finally stop smoking, nicotine is taboo, as is anything that increases intra-abdominal pressure, from tight belts to heavy lifting or deep knee bends.

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