gastroesophageal reflux

noun

: backward flow of the acidic contents of the stomach into the esophagus that is due to malfunctioning of a sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus and that results especially in heartburn : acid reflux see also gastroesophageal reflux disease

Examples of gastroesophageal reflux in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Babies are prone to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause coughing and gagging as stomach acid irritates the throat. —Evan Forster, Parents, 17 June 2024

Pickle juice is also typically high in sugar and acidity, Sharp notes, which can impact those with acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and cause issues with blood sugar and tooth enamel. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 19 Apr. 2024

What’s more, boosting your gut motility and moving the food out quickly can also help with heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), says Dr. Ganjhu—there’s simply less time for the digestive acids to do their thing. —Lizzy Briskin, SELF, 29 Mar. 2024

Here are some conditions for which magnesium may be particularly beneficial during pregnancy: Gastrointestinal (GI) issues: Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in pregnancy can be common. —Casey Seiden, Parents, 24 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

gastroesophageal reflux

noun

: backward flow of the acidic contents of the stomach into the esophagus that is due to malfunctioning of a sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus and that results especially in heartburn : acid reflux

—abbreviation GER see also gastroesophageal reflux disease