What is reflux and what causes it?
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What is reflux?
Reflux occurs when the acid in your stomach – which is there to help you digest your food – rises up into your oesophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach).
Normally, the contents of your stomach are prevented from moving up into your oesophagus by a ring of muscle called the lower oesophageal sphincter. This acts as a one-way valve, allowing food to enter your stomach but not to exit the same way. If this valve is not working properly, stomach acid is able to rise up into your oesophagus.
Your stomach has a thick mucous lining that protects it from the acids inside, but your oesophagus doesn’t have this protection, so when it is exposed to acid it may become irritated and painful.
Frequent reflux and heartburn may cause inflammation and ulceration of your oesophagus, and may need to be treated by your doctor. Only your doctor can tell you if your reflux is damaging your oesophagus. So if you do experience frequent reflux, make an appointment today.
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