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Which part of the digestive tract is affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease?
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digestive system disease
Learn why eating large meals can cause bloating, heartburn, and discomfort.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) primarily affects the esophagus, which is the muscular tube responsible for transporting food from the pharynx to the stomach.12
The condition is characterized by the frequent backflow of gastric contents from the stomach into the esophagus. This often occurs due to the relaxation or dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle that normally acts as a barrier to protect the esophagus from stomach acid. If left untreated, the chronic exposure to these gastric contents can damage the esophageal lining, potentially leading to complications such as Barrett esophagus or esophageal cancer.12