Final answer:
The LES in GERD patients often fails to close properly, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus, which can cause heartburn and esophageal damage. Lifestyle adjustments and medical treatments can help manage the symptoms of GERD.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) plays a crucial role in preventing acid reflux or heartburn, which is significant in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Normally, the LES remains closed, stopping stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. However, in GERD patients, the LES may not close properly, leading to frequent reflux of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, which can damage the mucous membrane. Factors like being overweight, smoking, and consuming certain foods and beverages can exacerbate the issue. Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, weight loss, avoiding specific foods, eating smaller meals, and not eating before bedtime can help manage GERD.
Ring-like muscles, or sphincters, form valves along the digestive system, and the LES is one of these. Its main function is to open to allow food to pass into the stomach and then shut tightly to prevent backflow. When individuals with GERD swallow, the LES opens but may not close fully, leading to acid reflux. Lifestyle modifications and sleeping with the bed head elevated can help use gravity to control backflow. Medical intervention, such as taking proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), is also a common treatment.