Gastroesofágico

Gastroesofágico refers to a condition or symptom involving both the stomach (gastro) and the esophagus (esofágico). The most common condition associated with this term is gastroesophageal reflux disease, often abbreviated as GERD. In GERD, stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This backward flow, known as reflux, can irritate the lining of the esophagus, leading to a variety of symptoms.

The primary symptom of gastroesophageal reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often occurs after eating or at night. Other common symptoms can include regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and chronic cough. In some cases, GERD can also lead to more serious complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), and Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous condition of the esophageal lining.

The gastroesophageal junction is the area where the esophagus meets the stomach. A key factor in GERD is the weakening or dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring that normally prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When the LES does not close properly, reflux can occur. Factors that can contribute to or worsen gastroesophageal reflux include obesity, pregnancy, certain foods and drinks (like fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol), smoking, and some medications. Diagnosis and management of gastroesophageal reflux typically involve lifestyle modifications, medication, and in some cases, surgery.