Reflux Acid Is Bad

The word “reflux” comes from the Medieval Latin word refluxus which comes from the Latin word refluere, meaning “to flow back, to recede”. If you suffer from acidic burn the acids from your belly “flow back” into your esophagus, causing discomfort and pain - this pain is sometimes known as heartburn.
What is the esophagus?
In simple terms, the esophagus is the tube between the stomach and the pharynx, which is at the back of your throat. According to Medilexicon’s Medical compendium, “the esophagus is the portion of the alimentary canal between the pharynx and stomach. It is about 25-cm long and is composed of three parts : the cervical part, from the cricoid cartilage to the thoracic inlet ; the thoracic part, from the thoracic inlet to the diaphragm ; and the intestinal part, below the diaphragm to the cardiac opening of the stomach.”

The esophageal sphincter lies at the junction where the belly and the esophagus join. Your belly produces powerful acids and enzymes ( gastric juices ) which are utilized in food digestion. The inner lining of your stomach has several mechanisms to protect itself from the effect of the stomach juices on itself, but the liner of the esophagus does not. There is a valve that stops the gastric juices from going up the esophagus - it is known as the lower esophageal sphincter.

When the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weakened gastric juices can seep upwards into the esophagus.

Most of us have acid reflux issues now and again. In majority of cases this is safe. If the issue becomes persistent and goes untreated, the heartburn can develop into GERD ( Gastroesophageal Reflux disease ). In lingering and harsh cases the esophagus can become scarred - the patient might have difficulty swallowing, and the risk of developing carcinoma of the esophagus increases significantly.
What is the difference between acid reflux and heartburn?
Acid reflux is the action, while heartburn is the sensation. The pain is heartburn, while the movement of acid into the esophagus from the stomach is acid reflux.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

• reflux
• heartburn
• acid reflux

What causes acid reflux?
acidic reflux typically occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter ( LES ) does not work properly, and allows acid to seep upwards from the belly to the esophagus. Although we know that a defective LES is a typical cause, we’re not sure why it becomes faulty. One of many reasons might be that pressure in the belly rises higher than the LES can withstand.