Q What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
A It is a condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn, sour belching, and a foreign-body sensation in the throat. It tends to occur when the valve between the stomach and esophagus becomes loose or when stomach motility declines.
Detailed Answer
Normally, the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) prevents stomach contents from flowing backward. When this control function weakens, or when the stomach digests and empties slowly so that food stays too long, stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus. Because the esophageal lining is vulnerable to stomach acid, irritation, pain, and inflammation develop, and this can also lead to a foreign-body sensation in the throat, a dry cough, or a hoarse voice.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Rather than the stomach acid itself, our clinic focuses on "why the stomach fails to empty in time and why energy rises back upward." We concentrate on restoring the diminished gastric motility and digestive rhythm to create a comfortable internal environment in which reflux is less likely to occur.
Related FAQs
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Q
Is a non-face-to-face consultation possible?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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I have a foreign-body sensation in my throat and a dry cough, perhaps from reflux. Will these improve too?
#Comorbidities
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Is there anything I can do right away when sour fluid suddenly rises at home?
#Lifestyle Management
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What habits should I build to reduce reflux?
#Lifestyle Management
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Q
Won't taking herbal medicine for a long time strain my liver? My stomach is weak too, so I'm worried.
#Safety