The stomach is lined with a mucous membrane that protects against the effects of acid. Since the esophagus is devoid of such a protective coating, the acid content of the stomach which goes back to (reflux) to cause heartburn (also collectively referred to as dyspepsia). Many people experience occasional heartburn; However, people who suffer from GERD are those who have Heartburn or other GERD symptoms constantly. Heartburn, Acid Reflux, bitter taste in the mouth, disturbed sleep, these are the symptoms of GERD.
After being chewed and swallowed, food passes into the pharynx and esophagus into the stomach. They are processed there through mechanical mixing but also due to the action of Gastric Juices. These juices are strong acids that can dissolve the food and kill most bacteria. The wall of the stomach is lined with mucus to protect itself against the attack of these juices. But the esophagus, just above, offers no protection against acid attacks.
The junction between the stomach and the esophagus is an area that acts as a barrier and it's called the Cardiac. The functions as a true cardiac sphincter or as a valve which opens when the food arrives and closes the feed passed into the stomach once. When working properly, this system prevents the gastric content of "up" into the esophagus.
But if the area of the cardiac fails, the acidic stomach contents can reflux into the esophagus and even to the pharynx, causing inflammation of the mucosa. These unpleasant sensations may even cause complications.
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