GERD:
Stands for GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease, a disorder in which there is recurrent return of stomach contents back up into the esophagus, frequently causing heartburn, a symptom of irritation of the esophagus by stomach acid. This can lead to scarring and stricture of the esophagus, which can require stretching (dilating).10% of patients with GERD develop BarrettÆs esophagus which increases the risk of cancer of the esophagus. 80% of patients with GERD also have a hiatal hernia.
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