In order to assist
digestion, the stomach produces a very strong acid called hydrochloric acid. We
are normally unaware of this since the stomach is designed to withstand this
acid. However, the esophagus or swallowing tube is not so protected. If acid
escapes back from the stomach into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux), it
irritates or damages it. We experience heartburn when
reflux – the back-flow of stomach contents – occurs. To prevent this reflux,
the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a band of muscles at the lower end of the
esophagus acts like a gate or valve. It permits food to pass down, and then
closes to prevent gastric contents from coming back up (Figure One).
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