Good question. Acid reflux disease is a condition in which stomach acid frequently backs up into the esophagus. Once there, all that acid can cause symptoms like heartburn or the presence of a sour or burning fluid in the back of the throat.
But did you know this same acid can also cause sores or erosions to develop in your esophagus? When this occurs, the condition is called erosive acid reflux disease.
So why does acid reflux happen?
The lower esophageal sphincter muscle, which acts as a protective barrier between the stomach and the esophagus, is not working properly. As a result, stomach acid is able to flow up into the esophagus.
Since the lining of the esophagus isn't built to handle stomach acid, erosions may begin to develop there. The good news is that there is something you can do to help heal the erosive damage acid reflux disease can cause and help relieve its symptoms.
Play the video to see how acid reflux occurs.
Erosive acid reflux disease can be treated. That's why it's important to know the symptoms and talk with your doctor about them.
Take a Self-Quiz to help you discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
