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Understanding Acid Reflux |
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Acid reflux may occur if the lower esophageal sphincter is not functioning properly. As usual, eaten food moves through the pharynx (throat), upper esophageal sphincter, esophagus, and lower esophageal sphincter and into the stomach. However, in acid reflux, the stomach contents flow backwards through the defective lower esophageal sphincter and re-enter the esophagus, which may be damaged (eg, pain, inflammation) by the stomach acid. The regurgitated food then returns to the stomach.