Gastroesophageal reflux disease describes the passage of contents from the stomach into the esophagus. Between the esophagus and the stomach there is a circular muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter which opens when the bolus to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent acid secretions and stomach contents pass upward into the esophagus. When this sphincter tone has diminished or is opened too many times, then reflux symptoms begin to appear, the most characteristic burning sensation or burning that rises to the throat.
