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Pathophysiology of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Video
ACLS Certification Association videos have been peer-reviewed for medical accuracy by the ACA medical review board.
Video at a Glance
- The LES provides pressure to prevent stomach reflux.
- The angle of HIS makes the GE junction longer.
- Obesity is a common cause of GERD because it reduces the angle of HIS.
- A fatty diet is also a cause because it stretches the stomach.
- Gastric contents have a low pH, and the esophagus doesn’t have protection against these acidic materials.
- Stomach acid irritates and erodes the esophagus.
- It is treated with medications that lower the pH levels of the stomach contents.
- Barrett’s esophagus is not caused by acid. Instead, it is due to enzymes. Therefore, lowering the acid in the stomach does not prevent or improve Barrett’s esophagus.
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