Heartburn is a common symptom in United States. Heartburn occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (a muscle which is located at the lowest part of the esophagus-near the junction of the esophagus and the stomach), exhibits either low tone or opens too frequently.
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) can open more frequently by tobacco, chocolate, mints, caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods and a variety of other foodstuffs. This subsequently exacerbates the symptoms of heartburn or GERD.
When heartburn occurs on a consistent basis, is present for several years or is refractory to medical therapy, evaluation by a gastroenterologist is appropriate. The most common study performed is an EGD. This study uses fiber-optic technology to examine the inside of the esophagus. It is used in the evaluation of the degree of damage from chronic gastroesophageal reflux. Barrett's esophagus is a pre-cancerous condition that is best diagnosed and followed by the use of such a fiber-optic examination.
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