An individual who has GERD experiences a backflow of food and acid from the stomach into the esophagus (reflux), which results in undesirable symptoms. In addition, the stomach acids can damage the esophagus. What is GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder affecting the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that connects the esophagus with the stomach. When the LES is functioning properly, it opens when an individual swallows and closes to prevent the food from re-entering the esophagus once it has reached the stomach. Treatment Options for GERD: https://buff.ly/2BeWb53