Why do I have reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux diseaseGERD) affects up to 40% of adults in the US, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain. The primary cause is often a weak valve at the bottom of the esophagus, allowing stomach contents to flow back, sometimes worsened by a herniated stomach. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medications, but some may require diagnostic testing to explore other causes, such as esophagealensitivity or non-acid reflux.